You may think you have enough time to grab that doubloon before the float gets here, but it's closer than you think. Hardly a year goes by where there isn't one person hospitalized because they were hit by or rolled over by a float. DO enjoy the family atmosphere of Mardi Gras in the Uptown area. Mardi Gras on St. Charles and Napoleon Avenues is a good bit different than what's happening in the Quarter. This is where families spread out blankets on the neutral grounds and have picnics.
People even bring out playpens to lay down the little ones when it's nap time.
It's a time for families to relax and have a good time, catch some stuff, and enjoy the parades. If all you've ever heard about are the wild times your co-workers have had in the Quarter when they come to Mardi Gras, remember that there are a lot of family folks who are a good bit more subdued than that. Kids love parades. Locals bring out ladders and attach seats to the top so the kids can sit up and get a good view. Even if you don't have a ladder, put your kid on your shoulders and they'll be able to see the floats and catch the stuff.