Hi Christa,
The Rainforest Cafe and TRex are great venues for a well-themed, family-friendly meal with young children. Rainforest Cafe has two locations, one at Downtown Disney and the other at Animal Kingdom. As you can guess, the restaraunt is themed after a tropical rainforest, and is filled with trees, wildlife, waterfalls and fish tanks. The weather even changes while you dine, as a tropical thunderstorm approaches. (Don't worry, no one gets wet!) TRex is themed after the prehistoric age, and is filled with dinosaurs and other creatures from that period. Both restaurants have large, varied menus, including very popular children's choices. You can make a reservation online by clicking
HERE. Securing reservations at either of these two spots tends to be a bit easier than at character meals.
I wouldn't give up on character meals all together, however. While you might not be able to secure a reservation for dinner, many venus offer breakfasts that start early in the morning, and usually have a bit more availability. If you are flexible with your time, a reservation agent at (407) WDW-DINE, can help you scout out a restaurant with an opening for your family.
For the most part, all Disney restaurants are very child-friendly. In fact, other than Victoria and Alberts, you should feel free to bring your children to any location. All have great children's menus, including desserts, and generally have just as many kids enjoying themselves as adults!
Bon Appetit!
Tanya