Hi, Julie!
Great question!
Making your vacation dollar stretch as far as possible is a great way to enjoy Walt Disney World at a more relaxed pace, so if moving to a Value Resort enables you to stay and play longer, it's a great idea.
Of all of the Value Resorts at Walt Disney World, I think that you'll find
Disney's Art of Animation Resort the best choice for your family. Take a look at the photos of any of the Family Suites offered at this great resort, and you'll see how this option will really offer you much more room as well as two bathrooms and a mini-kitchen. The Big Blue Pool is really lovely, too, and the only things you'll be missing are a slide and hot tub. The Drop Off pool bar is right there, so you can all enjoy refreshments should you find an hour or two to relax and unwind. Because you'll be traveling in December, swimming may or may be on your agenda, so this might not even be a factor for you in making your decision.
On the other hand, Landscape of Flavors, AoA's Quick Service location, is just about the most impressive QS I've seen yet. (It makes options at some other WDW resorts pale in comparison.) From Create-Your-Own Smoothies to cappuccino, Create-Your-Own Salad to Watermelon Gazpacho, Surf and Surf Burger to Mongolian Grill Beef Stir Fry, gourmet cupcakes and gelato, you'll be amazed at the quality and quantity of delicious options here. (Seriously, I've considered returning to AoA
just because of the food court. Yum!)
In short, I say book your stay at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, especially if it means that you get to extend your visit a bit longer. You won't feel that this beauty is too kidish; it's gorgeous.
Send more questions as you think of them, Julie; we love to help!