Hi, Jessica!
This is a great question, one that is frequently asked here at the Disney Parks Moms Panel; I'm glad you asked!
Currently, the park tickets that are part of your package at Walt Disney World need to be picked up at your resort on the day of check-in; they are included on Guest Key to the World Cards, which act as room keys, park passes and even have charging capabilities, should you wish them to do so. However, what some Guests don't realize is that you can check-in at your resort at any time that day; just because your room may not be ready until the afternoon check-in time doesn't mean that you can't check-in early!
We often take the earliest flight from our home town or head in from another FL resort or even from a cruise, all of which can result in an early morning arrival at our Walt Disney World Resort hotel. Because we may have our park tickets and Dining Plan meal entitlements on our account, we'll pick up our Key to the World cards at that time, then head straight to a park, leaving our luggage (and, often winter coats...) with Bell Services. When the room is ready, you will be notified via cell phone; however, by then you will have had hours of fun in the parks, rather than waiting for the fun to begin after your room is ready to be released to you.
To expedite the check-in process, take advantage of
Online Check-In, too. This way, your Key to the World Cards will already have been printed
before your arrival, saving some additional time there as well. It's a very efficient way to start a magical vacation, Jessica; I highly recommend it!
Send more questions as you think of them; we love to help!