Hi, David!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Normally, if you have a reservation for an early character breakfast at an in-park restaurant prior to park opening, you'll be permitted to enter the park about 15-20 minutes in advance of your reservation time. That being said, you could certainly arrive at 8:30 AM and make your way over to the special character dining turnstile to see if you could enter early; however, this is not guaranteed by any means. It will really depend on the Cast Members stationed at the special entrance, but I have to say I think it's unlikely they will allow you to enter an hour before your reservation time.
If you decide to arrive early but have to wait until park opening, you'll be able to enjoy the
Magic Kingdom Welcome Show which starts approximately 10 minutes prior to the official opening time. It's a great way to start your day at Magic Kingdom!
With a reservation at
Crystal Palace for 9:25 AM and park opening scheduled for 9:00 AM, you would still have plenty of time to stop along Main Street, U.S.A. to take photos. It's just a short walk to the restaurant for your breakfast with Winnie the Pooh and his friends from the Hundred-Acre Wood.
Wishing you a
magical vacation, David! Please feel free to write back with any other questions as you plan your trip. I'd be happy to help!
Kimberly