Hi Diane!
Thank you for sending in your question to the Walt Disney World Moms Panel!
Without a doubt, the best place to stay with a young child is on the Magic Kingdom monorail line. That is because most young children love the Magic Kingdom the best and families with young children tend to spend a lot of time there. Being on the monorail line gives you easy access to your hotel for a break, nap, etc. All three (Polynesian, Contemporary, and Grand Floridian) are Disney Deluxe Resorts. Another Disney Deluxe Resort that is a favorite of children is the Animal Kingdom Lodge. It is a spectacular resort, but it is kind of remote on Disney property making getting there and back using Disney transportation a little longer than the average Disney hotel.
Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) are really needed if you want to enjoy one of the Table Service restaurants in either the parks or the resorts. ADRs can be made up to 180 days in advance online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE. Favorite restaurants for children include:
- Cinderella's Royal Table inside Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom
- Princess Storybook Dining in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot
- Whispering Canyon Cafe in the Wilderness Lodge
- Chef Mickey's in the Contemporary
- Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom
By the way, since this is your first visit to Walt Disney World, I highly recommend picking up the book "The Complete Walt Disney World" by Julie and Mike Neal. It is a great book for first time visitors as it is full of information and tips, but is not overwhelming. It is also a beautiful book full of color photographs. Definitely check it out!
Our responses are limited in length, but I hope this gets you started. I would be happy to help you plan more. You can send questions directly to me, or to anyone else on the panel!