Hello there Teresa! How exciting that this will be your son's first trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth!" You must be over the moon to begin planning this special trip.
You are able to make
dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. Depending on when you arrive in December, I would start checking the
Disneyland app or the Disneyland site in late September/early October to see when reservations will open up for the date you are arriving. Once I figure out that date, I put a reminder in my mobile phone calendar for the day before so I can be prepared for the next morning. I do recommend trying to make your dining reservations as soon as you can the day they open, and usually the dining reservations are available at 6 AM PT.
There are several
Character Dining options, but I actually took my son to
Storytellers Cafe in
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa for his first trip and first character breakfast, it's an experience that I'll never forget. Mickey's Tales of Adventure Breakfast Buffet not only has a delicious breakfast for kids and adults, but the character interactions are so special! The characters will come around to each table, and your kids will be able to give them hugs, high-fives, and get a photo with each of them. I also love to get a video of when the characters first approach the table to capture the kids' reactions, their excitement is truly priceless.
Also, do not forget to get your son a "First Visit" complimentary button! You can definitely ask a Cast Member during your character meal, but the best place is at City Hall in
Disneyland Park. You'll find City Hall on
Main Street, U.S.A. to your left as soon as you enter Disneyland Park. He can wear that special button throughout your trip, and I'm sure some special shout-outs will follow him!
Best of luck securing your dining reservations Teresa! If we can help with any other questions or tips before your upcoming trip, please do not hesitate to
come back and ask.
Have a magical day!
Melissa