Helpful advice/answers for first time cruiser on MSC with tweens.

Hello! I have been doing some research and while some has been super helpful, others has been sort of vague. I have only ever cruised twice, both times on NCL in a Haven room that my sister booked, paid and planned for. This will be my first cruise on MSC and with my children, 10F and 12M. I am going on MSC Seashore 6/5/25.

I originally booked a regular balcony room but after research and suggestions that I’ve read, I’ve upgraded to Aurea. Personally for me, the free anytime dining is important and access to the thermal spa is also a nice plus. I’ve read mixed reviews about the food and just plan on going in with an open mind.

Some of the research I’ve done has been rather vague about the kids clubs. A lot of questions seemed to be geared around smaller kids who loved the clubs but not a lot about tweens. Any advice anyone has would be helpful. Specifically I was wondering:

1. Are the kids allowed to come and go as they please from the club? Do they have to be with an adult at all times or can they do the waterpark area and I be at a different pool?
2. Can the kids go to the buffet when they want and get what they want or do they have to eat when adults eat?
3. How does communication with them work? I’ve seen some comments where you can talk through the MSC app but it isn’t allowed for minors under 16. Can we access free WiFi and communicate through iMessage or do I have to get a package for the kids too?

Any other helpful information would be grateful! I’m a little nervous going into something I don’t have a ton of experience.