Hi, Linda! I'm reluctant to answer specific questions about tickets since policies change without notice and every family's situation is different. Yet, let me tell you what I have experienced and what I understand after I researched the guest's question to which you are referring.
Recently, we had 1 day left on a multi-day ticket for my 9-year-old son, and we knew we were returning a few more times within a year. Since the next time he returned he would be the magical age of 10, we decided to upgrade his ticket to an annual pass. We consulted with Guest Services at the MK which took the price of a 1-day ticket and discounted his annual pass by that much. To my knowledge, Guest Services at the 4 theme parks and at Downtown Disney are the only places to upgrade active tickets to annual passes.
All the AP benefits are outlined on the
WDW Passholder Program site -- which include dining, merchandise, sports and recreation as well as tour discounts. In addition, we have received some deep discounts on accommodations by registering online. There is a great newsletter,
Mickey Monitor, and special events, too. You can call 407-560-PASS to find out more about your options.
If I understand your plans correctly, you have the potential of spending up to 17 park days at WDW within a year. If I'm right, it most definitely would be beneficial and cost efficient for you to inquire about upgrading to an annual pass. Consult your travel agent or call 407-WDISNEY to ask your pertinent questions and to consider an annual pass. Hopefully, you still have time to adjust your August vacation to take advantage of annual passes.
If you have more questions, please come back and see me. My advice is intended to be your "neighbor next door" opinion, but the WDW Travel Planners truly are the experts that are capable of handling the specifics of your questions. Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation!