Hi Jodie!
Thank you for visiting the Moms Panel! I am excited for you - your vacation is nearly here!
As this is your first visit to Walt Disney World, it can be a little overwhelming, with so much choice, and so many decision to make. I would recommend you have a look at the
website at the Parks - to give you an overview of what is there, and which attractions you and your family might particularly enjoy. I would also suggest looking at the Park Calendars for the days of your visit - these provide park opening/closing hours, and the times of some of the entertainment such as the parades and fireworks. The calendars will also show when each park is operating Extra Magic Hours (available to Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests only, on select days the parks will open one hour early, or for a few hours after normal closing time). I have put links to the calendars below:
Magic Kingdom Epcot Hollywood Studios Animal Kingdom
Another good tip is to pick up a copy of the Park Map and Times Guide as you enter each park. The Times Guide will list the entertainment schedules for that day, as well as details of which characters you can meet there, and where they will be.
I always create a simple schedule, detailing each day's morning/afternoon/evening planned activities, including your dining plans and reservation numbers.
I hope this has helped - if I can assist with anything else in the few days before your exciting vacation, please send me a direct question, and I will be happy to help you!