Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resorts

It takes more than wishing on a star to plan a trip to Orlando. The details may seem overwhelming, but taking care of them is part of the fun of anticipating your grandchildren’s introduction to the magic of Walt Disney World. And it’s easy, too, thanks to our Complete Countdown Planner. Follow this calendar to map out the perfect Disney vacation.

As Early As Possible (1 year – 6 months in advance)

• Choose a date. Keep in mind your grandchild’s school schedule.

• Decide where you want to stay and make reservations. Walt Disney World Resorts fill up, especially in prime travel seasons — whenever schools are closed — so book online. If you decide to phone Disney directly, there’s no 800 number. Dial 407-934-7639 and be prepared to punch in a lot of information before you get a human being. Ask about room discounts or specials. Some good alternatives for large family groups are offsite private homes or villas, which can be found online and give you more space for less money.

• Purchase park tickets. Since Disney raises the price annually without notice, you want to buy now for the best prices.

• Make decisions about transportation. Air or car? Sign up for price alerts at the airline Web sites to get the best deal.

• You can reserve a seat at Mickey’s Backyard Barbecue 365 days in advance. Call Disney Dining at 407-WDW-DINE. (Put that number on speed dial: you’re going to need it!

Six Months Ahead (AKA That All Important 180 Day Mark)

• D-Day — as in “Dining reservations,” that is. Reservations are essential if you want to attend a character meal or experience any of the wonderful cuisine served throughout WDW. Walk-ups are few and far between, virtually impossible at some of the most grandkid-friendly restaurants. So play it safe and make your reservations at that 180 day mark. Start dialing before 7 a.m. Eastern time if you want Cinderella’s Royal Table, Le Cellier or any of the other more popular restaurants.

• Reservations for “special experiences” — such as the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Review and Cirque du Soleil — also open at this point.

• If you’re flying, start pricing a rental car now for the best prices, or check into shuttles to your resort.

Three Months Ahead

• If you’re treating the family to a specialty cruise, like the EPCOT fireworks boat rides, you can make reservations at 90 days by calling 407-939-7529 (WDW-PLAY). Use the same number for booking a catch-and-release fishing trip, surfing, parasailing, and waterskiing excursions.

• Golfers staying at WDW resorts can book tee times by dialing 407-939-4653 (WDW-GOLF).

• Get a copy of the parade and firework schedule from the Disney Web site and consult with the family to plan your fun.

Two Months Ahead

• If you’re flying, make your final airline reservations.

• Arrange transportation to and from the airport. Reserve a rental car or arrange shuttle transport.

One Month Ahead

• Make copies of your theme park tickets (front and back) just in case you lose one.

• Arrange for a house sitter or boarding for your pets.

• If you’re driving, schedule a tune-up and map your route. If necessary, book hotels along the way for overnight rest.

• Create a packing list and buy whatever you don’t have — think film, batteries, ponchos.

One Week Ahead

• Flyers should confirm flight information. Make sure everyone in the party has the proper ID.

• Confirm all your reservations.

• Complete the itinerary. Did you leave down time for rest?

• Start packing!

Four Days Ahead

• If you’re staying onsite, fax room requests (ground floor, near food court, no smoking, etc.) to your resort. Keep in mind requests are just that; room assignments are not guaranteed.

• Give an emergency contact list to family and friends. Put one in your suitcase, too.

• Charge batteries — the camera, the camcorder, the cell phone, and your own! Try to relax and enjoy the anticipation.

• Make sure you have your prescriptions filled and with you. Same for the grandkids. And bring along all medical cards, just in case.

The Day Before

• Call the airline to check flight times.

• If you’re driving, fill the car with gas and snacks. Get change for quick rides through tolls.

• Give keys to the house sitter.

• Finish packing.

The Big Day

• Get to the airport with plenty of time to clear security.

• On the road? This is quality time — talk about your vacation, sing Disney songs, play “Name that Character.” This is quality bonding time, sometimes more memorable than the theme park.

Rope Drop!

You’ve finally made it — all those hours of planning are about to pay off. Why not start as early as possible? Get to the Magic Kingdom by opening (called “rope drop” for obvious reasons) to catch the special opening ceremonies and join the throng of excited families as they rush down Main Street to their favorite attractions. And enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World.