Hi Patricia!
We're so glad you decided to stop by with this great question. I love all things Disney dining so I'm happy to help. Let's dig into the details, shall we?
Advance dining reservations are highly recommended for most dining experiences, especially at popular character dining locations. You'll see the cancellation terms and conditions listed for each venue as you go through the reservation booking process. Many will allow you to cancel the reservation without penalty if it's done more than 2 hours before your reservation, but select venues and pre-paid dining experiences like
Cinderella's Royal Table, Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, and
others listed here will result in each guest being charged the full cost of the experience if they don't cancel according to the terms. If you plan to dine at one of these locations you'll want to ensure your son makes his decision before the cancelation window closes. It's my understanding that a guest will not be refunded for missing a reservation at Cinderella's Royal Table or other specialty experiences mentioned in the link above, even if the rest of the party shows up as planned.
If you aren't planning on one of these specialty dining experiences, you'll likely have a bit more flexibility. If your son decides he isn't up for the meal but the rest of your party still wants to dine as scheduled, alert Cast Members to the change when checking in for your reservation. In my experience, removing a guest from your party won't result in a cancelation fee at most locations, as long as the rest of your party shows up for the reservation as scheduled. Keep in mind that removing guests might not pose an issue, but adding them to an existing reservation may not always be possible due to restaurant capacity.
One last thing to keep in mind is that all guests on a reservation (aged 3 and up) will be charged at Character Dining and all-you-care-to-enjoy type meals, even if they decide not to eat anything once seated. I hope this helps you make the right choice for your travel party.
Patricia, I'm wishing your family a most magical visit later this summer! If we can answer any additional questions please don't hesitate to come right back to planDisney and let us know. You are also welcome to
contact a Cast Member by phone or visit
Guest Relations for further assistance once you've arrived.
See ya real soon,
Amy