Hi Jone!
Thank you for visiting the Moms Panel!
This is a great question! I love the Disney Dining Plan. You do not have to schedule every meal - if you are choosing a counter-service meal for lunch, say, then you do not need to book this. I would recommend for a party of 10, that you make as many dining reservations as you can. With the huge popularity of the Disney Dining Plan it has made it more difficult to walk-in to a Disney Restaurant and find a table, and this would be particularly true for a party of your size. You can make your dining reservations up to 180 days in advance either
online, or by calling (407) 939 3463.
There are different types of Dining Plan,
you can see the various details here. They are very easy to manage, and you can use your meals and snacks in whichever order suits you best. There is a very wide selection of restaurants to choose from, including (new for 2012) the restaurants at Downtown Disney.
If there is anything else I can help you with, please come back and ask, I would be happy to help you plan your magical vacation!