Debbie, I am excited your family is starting to plan for their first Disney vacation!
Although no one can predict park attendance from day to day or month to month historically the best times to come are January up to Presidents week in February, September, and parts of December. Moderate times include the latter part of February up to mid March, May, and mid November to Thanksgiving.
My suggestion for a resort for your family would be either the Yacht or Beach Club resorts. They are located next to EPCOT and with the ages of your children I am sure EPCOT will be a favorite park during your stay. You are also close to the Boardwalk area and Fantasia mini golf is only a short walk. The Yacht and Beach have what many consider the best pool on property called Stormalong Bay. There are many great restaurants located in these resorts as well as the numerous ones just a five minute walk to EPCOT in the World Showcase.
Park Hopper Passes are tickets where you can visit any park on the same day for any amount of time and can return at any time once you leave the park. My family always gets these so we can enjoy early Extra Magic hours at one park, head to another less crowded park for a few rides and lunch, then head to another park for perhaps the evening Extra Magic hours or dinner. It gives you so much flexibility when planning.
Speaking of planning, start now! As soon as you know the dates of your trip start the process by looking at the park calendars and dining opportunities at all the resorts and parks. You can make advanced dining reservations up to 180 days from your arrival date and be aware of this as many restaurants book up early. Become familiar with the Disney website at
www.disneyworld.com.
As you plan keep asking us more questions and we will help make this a magical trip for your family!