Welcome to planDisney, Brandi!
I come from a large close-knit family as well, so I completely understand the challenges you are facing trying to arrange your trip for 6 to the Most Magical Place on Earth. Brandi, you have gotten off to a great start by reaching out to us.
The first thing that you need to decide on is your accommodation.
For your group, I would recommend getting a Family Suite at
Disney's Art of Animation Resort. These suites sleep 6 and have two full bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a separate bedroom for mom and dad. Additionally, Disney's Art of Animation Resort is located on the
Disney Skyliner, allowing you to be whisked away to Disney's Hollywood Studios and EPCOT at record speed, without having to collapse a stroller and board a bus.
If you would rather book two separate rooms, I would suggest
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. The amazing pool and dining options make this one of our family favorites, and it is also located on the Disney Skyliner route! You can always request two connecting rooms; however, those requests are not guaranteed.
The next thing that you will want to do is to purchase your tickets and make your
Disney Park Pass system reservations. The Disney Park Pass system reservations will allow you to reserve a park to visit each day of your trip.
Brandi, one of my family's favorite things to do on our vacation is to eat, and some
spectacular dining options can be found throughout Walt Disney World Resort. If you would like to eat at any table service restaurant, reservations are highly recommended and can be made 60-days out. One of my absolute favorites is
Chef Mickey's, where you can enjoy a family-style meal while being visited by Mickey Mouse and friends.
I know that you said your oldest child has a developmental delay. I wanted to tell you mom-to-mom that Walt Disney World Resort was designed with special people like your daughter in mind. Have you heard about the
Disability Access Service program? While I do not know if this would be a benefit to your little one, this service allows you to get a return time to ride a ride, as opposed to having to physically wait in line, and has been reserved solely for families who have members who can not wait in line because of their disabilities. To see if you qualify for this pass, you need to head to Guest Services on the first day of your theme park visit.
I hope that this gave you a little bit of guidance, Brandi. Please come back here if we can help you figure out where to play, stay, or dine at Walt Disney World Resort!
See you real soon!
Sarah B.