Hello Kara,
Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your question. Getting a jumpstart on your magical vacation is a great idea. With more than a year to research, plan, and save, you'll be setting yourself up to soak up the magic and make priceless memories. Your littlest travelers might not remember the adventure, but I promise you'll cherish every smile of delight and look of wonder.
Only children under 3 are free when it comes to visiting Walt Disney World; however, children ages 3-9 do pay a different rate than guests 10 and older for
park tickets and meals.
If you are trying to stick to a smaller budget (like most of us) but still want the
amenities of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, consider the
Value Resorts.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort has
family suites for up to 6 guests. Suites have a kitchenette where you can prepare simple meals, and you can even pack a lunch or snacks to bring with you into the parks. Your children will love the larger-than-life theming from their favorite movies like Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. You also have access to the
Disney Skyliner to easily get you to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios; it's like a ride in itself.
Also, consider starting small. There's no rule that says you have to visit all 4 parks during your vacation. I definitely recommend visiting
Magic Kingdom. All of the other parks have attractions, shows, and characters that I'm sure your children will love, but sometimes less is more. Maybe for this trip you'll just want to visit a couple of parks and spend a day just playing at your resort pool, roasting marshmallows at the campfire, and taking in a Movie Under the Stars.
Be sure to check out the
Special Offers page on the Walt Disney World website before you are ready to book your vacation. There are often special deals that can help you save a bit.
Hope this helps. Enjoy planning your magical vacation!
Diane