Some little tips: (hope you don't mind)
Last year we went and there was so much to do ,we didn't get to do it all.Unless your child really is set on getting some of the unusual (as you don't see them just everyday at the world) autographs or meet and greet,I would not waste the time standing in line for those.There are other things you could spend your time doing and I had a little one and I stood there for awhile for an autograph I wanted but then he got fussy. So I wasted alot of time in line and eventually ending up leaving before I got the autograph.Plus there are other places and lines shorter.The character dance place is awesome.You meet the characters,dance with them,they do sign autographs.
You get ALOT of candy! So if your child is like mine you may have to "over see" the treat bag.And hide yours,lol.
Depending on the time you go,we were there in late September and it was still sooooo hot. It was so hot I didn't put my son's buzz costume on him.I was afraid he would burn up. I had him in short sleeves then brought a light jacket for on in the night.Just remember to check the weather for costumes.
With your ticket you get in the park at 4p.m. To go earlier than that you need another park ticket.What we did is spent time at the hotel pool until time to get ready and then just used our
MNSSHP tickets and we got 4-12 at MK.That day might also be another good day for DTD. I just couldn't see paying for 2 tickets for one day,kwim?
Make sure you get in early for the parade.It filled up much faster and was harder to get a spot for it unlike the regular parade. It was so worth seeing.
The fireworks at the MNSSHP are amazing.We didn't plan this but it worked out that we were on Dumbo when they went off. It was awesome.All three of us still talk about how magical that was.
Also on the nights you dont go to the party,you can watch the fireworks from the monorails or even better make ADR at Ohana's for the time of the fireworks and watch while you eat your meal.Depending how early you make it ,you might could get a window seat. We sat with a good view and was not near the window and it was still great.
Please don't think I'm trying to be a smart alleck or bossy.I just hope I helped you even just a little. I would have been lost last year ,it was our first trip,if I hadn't of got so much advice and little tips.Most of all, have fun!!!!