Welcome Minsmom and all newbies! The DIS is the best place ever! (well, next to Walt Disney World,
Disneyland and
Disney Cruise Line that is!) I should say first and foremost this is a great place to get specific questions answered and learn from other travelers' experiences and just to generally gab about all things magical.
Get the book:
If you are looking for basic information - restaurant reviews, ride descriptions and general overviews of activities I highly recommend you pick up the best planning book of all, The Passporter Guide to Walt Disney World 2007. I can't say enough about how, well-written, wonderful and organized this book is (no I don't work for the company!), even for a seasoned Disney traveler like myself (I've been to WDW 10 times,
DCL once and am crusing again this fall). So get that book and take it with you to help with day to day planning.
Pencil it in:
I also recommend drawing out a chart, or if you're nerdy like me, making an Excel spreadsheet, mapping out what parks you plan on doing on which days. In order to maximize the magic as I like to say, it helps to fill in what parades and special events you'd like to see and organize your park visits around that. For example, if Spectromagic is only shown on 2 nights of the week (as is the case in some seasons) plan to be in Magic Kingdom on that day/eve so you don't miss it. At allearsnet.com you can find detailed schedules of park hours and parade times. Don't let randomness ruin your vacation! Those who don't plan get overwhelmed upon entering the World and flit from thing to thing with no rhyme or reason and end up missing some of the most enjoyable experiences that Disney has to offer. As many on this board can attest to, Disney is far more than just rides. The shows, parades, character signings and small attractions and displays are just as much a part of the Disney experience. So make sure to take the time to stop and smell the roses (and enjoy those gorgeous topiaries!) Daily parades (at 3 different parks) and fireworks (at 2 different parks) are a staple of the Disney experience, and what makes WDW the most magical place of all. So draw up a loose schedule for mornings and afternoons and mark out any dining reservations and parade times. That should help you day to day. Remember, in case of rain or change of heart you can always veer from the plan, there is room for spontenaity! But it helps a great deal. Also if you are staying on property, you can take advantage of extra magic hours in mornings or evenings and enter/stay late at parks just for being a Disney hotel guest. In some cases you may want to organize a park day around that, how early or late you can stay. Another great reason to do up a loose schedule!
Take a break:
WDW is more than just the four main theme parks. There are lots of activities at the hotels and around the world that are relaxing and fun. Downtown Disney is fun to tool around as well. Also, it is only in the past 5 years that I have discovered the fabulous world of WDW waterparks and I am always trying to make up for lost time! I would not consider myself a "waterpark person" but Disney waterparks are a whole different beast. Just pure fun and relaxation with the best theming around. Your 6-year old will love it, and it's a great place to take a break from the hustle of the parks and enjoy a beach like atmosphere or some floating around on Castaway Creek tubes (my favorite activity of all!). We also budget one morning or afternoon just to hang around our hotel (we usually stay at AKL) and swim in the pool or enjoy hotel activities like culinary tours.
Get to know the locals:
And by locals I mean the Cast Members! Not just those happy mice but everyone who is there with a smile on his/her face ready to help you have the best vacation ever! Getting to know CMs is an integral part of what makes WDW so magical. And sometimes just getting to know them will result in insider tips or even special privileges. I once got a Magical Moments certificate just for chatting with a CM about her job!
Dining Disney style:
I am assuming you will be dining WITH your son at all times so I will recommend family-oriented dining options. Whispering Canyon Cafe at the Wilderness Lodge is a fun-filled interactive experience! Other great choices are Ohana at the Polynesian, Boma at the Animal Kingdom Lodge and any character meals at the parks or hotels. I particularly like Goofy's Beach Party Buffet at the Beach Club Resort. In my humble opinion, the best WDW food offerings are at the hotels, so it's worth the extra effort to do bus transfers to the hotels. Just make sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Get around:
If you are not renting a car you will become very familiar with Disney transportation. Myself, I like to mix it up while I'm there. I love to ride on the monorail, the buses and the boats (both the Friendship boats and the small boats on Seven Seas Lagoon). Riding the smaller boats that cross Seven Seas Lagoon from the hotels to Magic Kingdom are some of my best relaxing "down time". Plus there's nothing like a nice scenic tour around the lagoon. The WDW railroad around MK is also great for unwinding.
I went to WDW for the very first time when I was 6 years old. And look at me now! Disney addict for life.
But seriously, I think it's awesome that you are taking your son at age 6. There is no better life-long gift than the gift of WDW memories forged at such a young age.
So, have a GREAT trip! With just enough planning to maximize your magic you're sure to have the best vacation ever.
I am sure somebody with more experience will be along shortly but just had to say dont listen to you dh
Make your adrs for your meals this way you know you always have a table. Just start reading the reviews and posts. sorry I wasnt much help but wanted to let you know you are right for wanting to plan it out
Don't let yourself get overwhelmed, it should be a fun planning process. 
