Hi Leeann!
With your kids being 5 and 7 years old, there are plenty of magical options for your family!
At the value end of the scale, I'd most highly recommend Disney's Art of Animation resort (a standard room in the Little Mermaid section of the resort) or Disney's Pop Century Resort. Both resorts have their own, direct transportation into the parks and great recreation and dining options right on site.
In order to budget for your vacation, I recommend reserving as far in advance as you can (as soon as you're firm on your dates) with a minimal deposit just $200. Reserve your
Magic Your Way Vacation Package online through the Walt Disney World website and you'll have full access to view your balance and make payments any time you wish. I calculate how many weeks are left between my final payment due date (45 days before the start of my trip) and the date I book, to determine a small, weekly payment amount I make every Friday. Being able to log into My Disney Experience and make small payments really makes the 'bill' of vacation seem much more manageable!
Consider picking up small Disney Gift Cards each time you visit your local retailers who sell them. Adding a $25 card to your grocery bill now and then will have you putting aside all kinds of spending money ready to take with you on vacation!
Another money saver would be the
Disney Dining Plan. Consider adding it to your Magic Your Way Vacation at the time of booking. You'll save 20% or more on dining and have all the flexibility and choices you could dream of!
I hope these tips help you get started Leeann!
Wishing you a simply Magical time planning your visit to Walt Disney World!
Kirsten