Hiya Trista,
Welcome to planDisney! I know some people visit Walt Disney World Resort to meet characters or ride attractions (don't get me wrong, I love those things as well), but dining is always at the very top of my priority list. My Prince Charming knows that if we are planning a trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth, I'll start by planning our dining first, and then the rest will follow afterwards.
Speaking of dining, Trista, let's chat about the
Disney Dining Plan. First of all, great question! There have been plenty of times when I've either preferred an item on the kids' menu or didn't have an appetite for a larger-sized meal. I reached out to a Cast Member to understand the official guidelines for using table service dining credits on kids' menu items when you are an adult. Unfortunately, the two Cast Members I spoke to informed me that you cannot use table service dining credits for kids' menu meals as an adult. However, they mentioned that you are welcome to ask a Cast Member before ordering if you can use your credit for a kids' meal, as they may make case-by-case exceptions (though not guaranteed). But for the most part, you can expect that they will not be able to permit it.
I know this wasn't the answer you were hoping for, Trista, but I hope it was still helpful. Before I let you go, I know you mentioned that you prefer items from the kids' menu, so I wanted to share a tip with you. Try to get dining reservations for buffet meals (if you haven't already made reservations). I've traveled with a picky eater before, and I found that the meals we had at buffet-style dining, such as
Tusker House or
1900 Park Fare, were her favorites. The variety helped her select items that made her happy and also provided options for the adventurous eaters in our group, so everyone was happy. If you would like any recommendations or have additional questions, please feel free to come back and see us. We would love to help you have the most magical vacation and enjoy a meal that brings you happiness as well.
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.