Hi Maureen!
Thank you for sending in your question to the Moms Panel! Several panelists recently answered a question about planning a first visit and you can see the various answers
here.
You didn't ask, but
here's my opinion on bringing very young guests to Walt Disney World. Bottom line is you can have a great time and make wonderful memories for you to cherish the rest of your life!
For your son's big day, you might consider a Character Dining Experience. My children love
Chef Mickey's and I think it would be an appropriate place to celebrate a 1 year old's birthday. It is in the Contemporary Resort; you can easily get there via the Magic Kingdom if you're not staying there or at another Magic Kingdom resort hotel.
Six inch cakes are available at most Disney Table Service (full service) restaurants. They do not require advance notice and can be requested at the podium of the restaurant. You also might consider getting a custom cake. You can choose from a variety of cakes and shapes and have it personalized for your son. It is available at most Table Service restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. Just call the cake hotline in advance: (407) 827-2253.
Finally, if he hasn't had a hair cut yet, you might consider getting your son's "first hair cut" at the barber shop on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. It's a wonderful experience!
Have a magical vacation!