Hello and welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I can certainly understand a family's dilemma when attempting to feed small tummies. My younger daughter may eat a few bites of her dinner and then decide to eat more later. I think it's just her way of making sure she gets her Dole Whip every day! I do have a bit of information for you that may help you make a meal time plan.
I am not sure how old your niece is, if she would be considered a "Disney adult" age ten or over, or if she would be looking at the child's menus as a "Disney Kid," for ages three to nine. Either way, she is more than welcome to order from the child's menu at Quick-Service and Table-Service dining locations. The difference comes when using the
Disney Dining Plan. If she is age ten or over, then your account will be charged an adult meal credit for her meal, no matter from which menu she orders. If you would rather, you are welcome to pay out of pocket for any of her meals and use that meal credit at another time during your stay.
I hope this information helps you decide on how to use your Disney Dining Plan entitlements. Please stop by anytime you have a question for your upcoming vacation. We would love to help you make it even more magical!
Brandy B.