Hi Tamara,
Walt Disney World is a fantastic place to celebrate a birthday and with an eight year old Son myself, I have one or two suggestions to make your little boys special day even more magical:-
1/ Make a dining reservation for a Character Meal and pre-order a custom cake to be brought to your table during the meal
2/ Arrange an In-Room celebration or Mickey's Birthday Surprise through Disney Floral & Gifts
3/Arrange for a gift to be waiting for the birthday boy upon your arrival at your Disney Resort hotel through Disney Floral & Gifts
4/ Create your very own Birthday Ear Hat at the Chapeau in the Magic Kingdom theme park
5/ Make an advance reservation at the
Pirates League where your Son will be transformed into an official Pirate. You could even end your day by watching the Magic Kingdoms fireworks from the Seven Seas Lagoon on a
Pirates & Pals Fireworks Voyage!
You will find lots of other ideas on the Customize Your Special Occasion page of the Walt Disney World website
HERE.
I would also be sure to pick up a complimentary birthday button when you check-in at your Disney Resort hotel or from Guest Relations as you enter one of the Disney Parks for him to wear throughout your stay. You will be surprised at just how many Cast Members and other Guests will stop to wish him a Happy Birthday.
I hope that this has given you some ideas and wish you a magical trip!