Elizabeth,
I have always found that one of another of the
Disney Dining Plans could save me money on a trip. It is more a matter of finding the one that matches the kind of dining my traveling group planned on enjoying.
The real question is how do you plan on dining? Do you expect to have a sit down table service meal for every meal? Then go with the Deluxe. Are you going to mix some table service meals with some quick service counter dining? Then go with the standard. Are you strictly a fast-food family? Then the Quick service plan is for you.
Most families, especially those on a first trip here, probably should plan on just the standard plan. You really can eat up a lot of time (excuse the pun) with table service meals, and most kids, even a voracious 6-year old, end up not being able to eat at three table service restaurant meals every day.
I am glad to help with some follow-up advice, if you wish. Just send me a question directly from my bio page with info on what you like!
Have a magical (and delicious) vacation!