Hi, Karen!
Thanks for asking this question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
The best way to decide if a
Disney Dining Plan is right for you is by looking at the kind of table service reservations you have planned. Beyond the ticketed food events, you may get your money's worth if you get reservations at Signature Dining restaurants. My favorite is
Cinderella's Royal Table inside Cinderella Castle. Signature Dining takes two table service credits.
Knowing most of your meals are paid for ahead of time is a great plus to a dining plan. I will warn you to save up to tip your waiter or waitress at your table service meals. Tipping isn't included in the dining plan and some of those big meals can cost a lot! I've found tip often costs about the same as if I had paid for a Quick Service meal for my family.
I hope that gives you a little extra insight into the thought process I use when I decide if I want to use a dining plan!
Have fun planning your magical vacation!
-Jen