Hi Earl!
Welcome Home and Jambo! You are going to have an amazing adventure at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
The best way to make dining plans is to first decide how many table service meals you would like to experience. Typically my family eats 1 table service meal per day, but some vacationers like to have all 3 table service meals each day. Once that is decided then you will need to make Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR's) for your table service meals. All of the quick service meals do not need a reservation, so there isn't much planning needed ahead of time for those.
Here is a link for making
Dining Reservations for Walt Disney World Resort. In the banner at the top of this linked page you will find filters to refine your search. I find it helpful to change "All Parks and Resorts" to view just one location at a time, such as the Magic Kingdom. If you prefer to speak to a Cast Member instead of reserving online, just call the number at the bottom of the linked page. Some restaurants require a credit card to hold the reservation, so have it handy before you begin.
One dining tip is to try and dine at non-peak meal times. Sometimes it is easier to make a reservation if you are willing to eat a little early or late. In fact even if I am dining at a quick service restaurant I usually try to eat lunch at 11:00 AM and supper at 4:30 PM to avoid the meal time rush. Then while the other Guests are having their meals my family is out enjoying the attractions.
I hope this helps you in making upcoming dining plans. If you have any follow up questions, please write back to us at the Disney Parks Moms Panel and we would be happy to help!
Have a Disney Day!
Brenda