Hi Christine!
Congratulations on your upcoming Walt Disney World vacation!
I completely understand your dilemma between two great Disney Resort Hotel area locations.
While I absolutely love the serene tranquility of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, it is a little more isolated in location, with all parks and Downtown Disney serviced only by bus. If you intend to spend plenty of time enjoying the great amenities and recreation at Animal Kingdom Lodge, then you may very well enjoy this location tremendously. I found my children to enjoy and appreciate this resort better as they became a little bit older.
With little ones in strollers, and with time being of the essence to get to and from the parks, I'd definitely most highly recommend the Magic Kingdom area resorts. Having monorail access at your doorstep is a huge plus when you want to get into the parks early in the day and home again at nap time or dinner time.
My favourite Resort in the Magic Kingdom area is
Disney's Polynesian Resort. Not only is it located right on the monorail line to Magic Kingdom, you can also walk a short stroll to the Transportation and Ticket Center to board the Epcot monorail! With plenty of dining options, a beach from which to view the Wishes fireworks over Cinderella Castle in the distance, the Electric Water Pageant passing by in the evenings, a fantastic pool and lush grounds, this location just cannot be beat! Popping back to your resort for nap time during your days at Magic Kingdom or Epcot will be such a breeze.
Thanks for visiting the Moms Panel with your great question Christine. I hope I've helped you weigh out your choices. If you have further questions about either of these resort properties, or others, please write me back again any time and I'd be happy to assist you!
Wishing you a simply Magical time at Walt Disney World!
Kirsten