Start with this one (an absolute classic!):
A DLR Guide for WDW Vets.
This one is very helpful, too:
https://www.disboards.com/threads/choosing-the-right-dlr-area-hotel-for-you.3656512/.
This one will help with events in October:
Frightful Fun for Everyone: Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort Returns September 7.
For TS dining, FP Dining Packages for F! & WOC, WOC Dessert Party, character dining, afternoon tea at Steakhouse 55 at the DLH, etc.: Priority Seating Reservations open 60 days in advance. Don't worry if the books don't open exactly at 60 days -- sometimes you may have to wait a few days, but reservations will open up. You can reserve by phone or online.
There are lots of threads on CS dining on the
Disneyland (California) forum -- that's the trip planning forum for Disneyland Resort. Do a search to see if anything interests you. Feel free to post any and all your DLR trip planning questions there. You'll get great tips and advice!
Also, you can find the DLR menus (hotels, DTD, park restaurants) on allears.net. You'll be able to see what will work for your family and get a ballpark idea on a food budget, too.
