Sandra:
What a memory making experience you are creating for your grandchildren! They will look back on this trip for years to come!
Take heart: I'm a firm believer that Disney can fit all budgets. And the areas to scrutinize are your accommodations, your tickets, your food costs and transportation. There are lots of books out in the book stores on budget travel to Disney--and I would recommend picking up one like Disney on a Dime or the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
I usually recommend staying on property, but with 6 grandchildren, you will be looking at two hotel rooms or a villa, and you may be better staying off-property. Take some time to check out
www.allstarvacationhomes.com and look at its condo rentals. (The funniest thing is that my children often remember the pool time
they have on vacation more than anything else! So try to find
one with pool access!)
Having a kitchen for meals certainly can cut down on expenses. Eat a good breakfast, pack lunches, and with small children, return home early for dinner and you can go back to the park if everyone is rested or just finish off the day by the pool.
Another recommendation is to buy one park-only tickets rather than park hoppers. With young children and groups, I find that park hopping is not worth the extra price--and you've got both!
Lastly, add in a few "splurges" during the week: a late morning Character Meal at
Chef Mickey's, a Mickey ice cream bar break, or my favorite budget break, a trip to the Cool Zone by Coke at Epcot where everyone can try sodas from all over the world---for free!
Wishing you a magical vacation!
Whitney