Hi Heather,
Thanks so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your questions! We on the panel love helping guests plan their Disney vacations.
Since you are heading to Walt Disney World at Thanksgiving, your window for making dining reservations will open up soon. This window opens at 180 days ahead of your check-in date. I recommend that you choose where you would like to eat for at least one meal a day and go ahead and make those
Disney dining reservations as soon as you are able. This way, you will be sure to have reservations at the places that you really want to dine, and this will start to give some structure to your days. You can make the reservations online using the link I provided, or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).
You mention that you have a multi-generational group. I always suggest with a larger group, especially a multi-generational one, that you allow the group to split up for part of the day if necessary. Some members of the group may need a mid-day rest, and the rest of the party may want to stay in the theme park. There may be certain attractions that are only appealing to part of your group. Letting the group split up when they want to means that everyone is happier later. You can plan a late afternoon meal for everyone to have together where you can share stories of the day!
Since you mention that you are switching resorts, let Disney move your luggage for you! No need for you to lug that luggage - when you check out of
Disney's Art of Animation Resort, simply ask that your luggage be transferred to your next resort. This way you can head out to the theme parks and enjoy your day, and your luggage will be at your next resort later that day.
I hope that these thoughts are helpful. Please do write back if you have any further questions, Heather!