We traveled with a 2 and 4 year old, and this was our first time on a Carnival cruise after only going on Disney cruises in the past. While the ship was older, smaller, and not near as elaborate, we had a fabulous time and there is no doubt that we will be sailing with Carnival again.
We were a bit hesitant going on a Carnival cruise with children because we weren't sure if there would be enough things to entertain them, nor were we sure how family-friendly the cruise would actually be. But the kids had a great time, and so did we! The Dr. Seuss Breakfast was fun and worth the additional $5 per person. Camp Carnival was small, but they did a great job with the kids and had fun activities for them. And the waterslide/splash pad area was great. Not to mention, there was never a problem with the crowd. It was never an issue to find an open lounge chair at the pool or seat at the buffet - something the Disney cruise lacked tremendously!
The Shore Excursions we participated in were also phenomenal! We did the Family Beach Escape in Freeport, and the staff there was absolutely fabulous. The staff watched the kids while the parents were able to participate in family activities, or do whatever else you wanted without them! In Nassau, we did the Atlantis Beach Day and Aquarium. The beach was lovely and the waves were just perfect for body surfing, and the aquarium was just a big enough where you didn't get bored. Atlantis, however, is lacking a large amount of bathrooms, but this was our only complaint!
Beautiful resort with lots to do, but pricey and lacking bathrooms!