Hi Rita,
Thank you so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. My daughter is ten years old, so eight years old was not too long ago! Let me share with you some experiences that she really enjoyed a couple of years ago. You mentioned that you are on a budget, so I am offering some ideas at various price points.
First, though you do not want to do Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, have you considered
The Pirates League? Here, little ones get decked out as pirates, or if your daughter prefers, as a mermaid. It is a fun experience in which they even get a pirate name, and the whole experience is quite theatrical!
Another possibility is the
Wild Africa Trek. The youngest that a guest can go on this experience is eight years old, so your daughter might enjoy being the youngest, as mine did when we went! On this amazing experience, you get to walk above crocodiles and see hippopotami up close - all while safely harnessed in, of course. Then you get to sample delicious food while seated at an amazing vantage point on Kilimajaro Safaris.
Finally, though my daughter has not experienced on herself, I know that many guests enjoy the
Pirate Adventure Cruises. These sail from various resorts, and allow children to have adventures in searching for hidden treasure!
I hope that these ideas are helpful for you, Rita. Have a wonderful time planning your magical vacation, and please do not hesitate to ask if you have any further questions!