Hi Paul, Great news! You've already taken care of the first 2 steps: You've decided when you are going and where you are staying. Once you have booked your Resort reservations, you'll want to make your Advanced Dining Reservations. These can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-DINE. You can also book them online:
HERE. Spend some time browsing the restaurants and then be sure to book as soon as possible. With a large party like yours, you will definitely need reservations. A few suggestions for restaurants, given the ages of the children who are traveling with you, would be:
Chef Mickey's for dinner (Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald & Pluto are often there),
The Crystal Palace for breakfast (Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore & Piglet),
'Ohana for dinner (coconut rolling, limbo & hula dancing for the kids) and
Whispering Canyon Cafe (lots of fun antics & good food). You may want to consider a dinner show as well, such as the
Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue (a great time for everyone).
Due to the size of your party, you qualify as a "Grand Gathering". This makes you eligible to enjoy special experiences such as the Safari Celebration Breakfast, the Good Morning Gathering and the International Dinner & IllumiNations Dessert Reception. You'll want to call Disney's Grand Gathering Travel Planners at 407-WDW-PLAN (407-939-7526) , as they can help you with your Resort and Dining reservations. In addition, they can help you reserve any of the special experiences listed above.
Hope this helps,
Kaylene