Karen:
If you're like me, you want to get the most value out of the
Disney Dining Plan. Planning ahead and make reservations within your 180-day window to check-in will allow you to book more of the special dining places your girls will remember.
I have a similar approach to you: I book only one sit-down meal a day as it can take a good 1.5 hours out of the parks from touring. To get the most of the plan, making dinner reservations for your table service dining is spot on. But don't be afraid to use one of the credits for a breakfast meal like
Crystal Palace before the park opens. There's nothing like getting your picture made on Main Street with no one around! With their ages, the Character Meals are solid values on the meal plan. I prefer Chef Mickey's to see the five fab, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto and 1900 Park Fare to enjoy an evening with not only Cinderella and Prince Charming but also the evil stepmother and stepsisters who are rare finds in the parks.
With children, there's only one problem we encounter with the Meal Plan: too much food. I would encourage you to combine two of your table service credits to enjoy a dinner show like
Hoop Dee Doo Revue or a memorable evening's view at California Grill.
Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
Whitney