On the one price meals which would include Ariel's as well as the character buffets you have to pay the adult price if they are over 9. I think that they figure the price includes the entertainment factor in addition to the food. So at Ariel's and the buffets, you are not allowed to share and the adult pricing is for anyone over 9. Kinda stinks, believe me I feel your pain since I have two kids ages 10 and 12. I will pay $35 for my daughter at Goofy's and I am betting she will eat a few chicken nuggets, some fruit and probably one cookie!
Now at non character restaurants, (full service and counter service) you can order kids meals for your kids just fine or even have them share one or share off of your meal. I have done that for years with no problem. I think Blue Bayou might charge a plate splitting fee now but thats the only one I know of. At all the other places we have done kids meals for our 12 year old or shared just fine. This includes all the places in Downtown Disney as well.
