We first noticed this change when upgrading a Disney dining plan (which you can read about in our Walt Disney World Dining Plan Upgrades Are Free For Children article) when staying at a moderate resort in 2026.
Guests who wish to travel outside of this promotion, can benefit from Free Kids Dine Plans. Kids aged 3-9 inclusive, travelling between January 1st - 31st December 2026 inclusive, staying at a Disney Resort, will qualify for a free Disney dining plan if the booking includes one paid for adult dining plan. The child must be staying on the same room as the adult and order from a children's menu where available. Dining plans must be purchased for the entire length of stay and for all Guests on the booking. Free Kids Dine Plans exclude gratuities.
When searching for a 2026 Walt Disney World stay with children, you'll see the below when come to choose your dining plan.
While this news won't be hugely beneficial right now for most guests as the early booker offer that includes Free Dining & Drinks is currently active, it will be beneficial for those who want to go on the blockout dates but want to buy the dining plan. The way this is worded sounds like it will be included for all 2026 stays, so it should be available to guests who book a 2026 stay after the free dining & drink offer ends this summer.
Click here for the 2026 Free dining & drinks offer >
