Hi Randi,
Congratulations on your "Grand" adventure! I also have four children of my own and whenever my family has the opportunity to vacation with their grandparents I have found the magic and memories increase exponentially.
Since you will be enjoying several Table-Service meals and most of those do not include gratuities (some exceptions such as Dinner Shows are noted in this brochure for
2015 Deluxe Dining Plan), I suggest estimating your needs for gratuities first. A good method is to view the menu choices and pricing for each of the
Walt Disney World restaurants in which you are planning on dining and estimate what your family's gratuity cost might be. Since your party size is over 6 you will have an 18% automatic gratuity added (although you may choose to tip more if you like). You should be aware that some items, such as most alcoholic beverages and souvenir items such as glow cubes, are not considered part of the Deluxe Dining Plan and must be purchased separately if you would like to order those.
The amount of money your family spends on souvenirs or services (such as Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeovers) is highly personal. My advice is to make a budget for your children and let them know ahead of time how much money they can anticipate being allowed to spend on souvenirs. Having a family budget set for discretionary spending before vacation begins helps me to relax and immerse myself in the magic once our vacation begins.
Thank you for your question and please let us know if we can help answer any further Disney vacation planning questions. We are always happy to help!
Blessings,
Brenda ºOº