Hi Anne,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Clearly there is much happy dancing going on in your household. Planning your first trip to the Walt Disney World Resort is so exciting!
Some
advanced dining reservations are difficult to get because the restaurants are so popular. Although I have never used one, I have seen a reservation finder online. Instead, when I need those hard to get reservations, I just keep checking. I will usually pick an evening when we are watching a movie and I will sit there with my portable device, constantly check the dining reservation system. I have done this for hours. It may sound obsessive, but I have always been able to find a reservation!
I have also modified reservations during our trip. On one trip, I had two reservations for Cinderella's Royal Table because I was afraid that our train might be delayed and we might miss the first one. When we arrived on time, I cancelled the reservation for later in the week. I share this information to assure you that there are always cancellations. But, you have to be prepared to make the reservation immediately.
Also, be prepared to consider different dining times. Since your children are younger, I realize that you may not want to eat too late, but you could dine at breakfast, brunch or lunch. We often do different times when we need to get into a character meal.
Aside from Cinderella's Royal Table, some of our favorite character meals are Chef Mickey's, The Crystal Palace, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, 1900 Park Fare, Tusker House and Hollywood & Vine. If you continue to alternate checking between these, I believe you will find something!
Anne, I know this is going to be a very special trip for your little ones. If you dine at The Crystal Palace, be sure to shake a leg in the Pooh-rade!
Take care,
Donyell