Hi Lisa, welcome to the Disney Parks Mom's Panel!
Here is how I plan my visits to Walt Disney World.
First I choose when to visit by using unofficial sites like Touring Plans that predict crowd levels for the entire year. I also use
Walt Disney World calendar to know park hours and events times - I look for days with late night park hours.
I always make the most of early and late park hours.
Choosing a resort depends on budget and taste. If budge allows it Disney Deluxe Resorts offer great benefits to its guests. Most of these resorts feature Character Dining as well as Signature Restaurants and all are conveniently located close to 1 or 2 theme parks or to Downtown Disney.
Still, Moderate Resorts offer great value with great benefits. Regular rooms at Value Resorts do not feature queen beds.
To make the most of your vacation time I always suggest driving your own or rental car.
All four theme parks deserve at least 1 full day visit and if revisiting parks is a possibility make sure to visit Magic Kingdom as much as you can before revisiting any other park. Animal Kingdom is a great park to revisit with young children.
Bringing your own stroller helps keeping young children well rested during the day. These are also useful for storing bags and other personal items.
Thank you for visiting and letting us help you plan a magical vacation at Walt Disney World.
Hope to hear again from you.
Miguel