You should be able to sit together or next to each other, seats are 2 and 2. For the kids bring lots of activities, snacks, etc. Also, change location between the Coach and SSL to keep things interesting. Since it will be summer, there should other children on board so opportunities to make new friend exists (my 7 year granddaughter became part of a group of four her age from all over the USA. They colored, played games, and talked, and ate together for most of the trip). When I take my granddaughters, they have a backpack full of activity things they haven't seen before. In the beginning they will be so excited, but in the last hour or two, it will be "How much Longer". Three of my five grand children love the train and beg me to take them again. Though generally sold out in the summer, there is a Family Bedroom (2A/2C) on the lower level of the Sleeping car. It is near the bathrooms and will include your meals. Oh, we played a game of spotting things out the window. Each had a different list with vehicles, animals, stores, trains, nature things etc. This had them staring out the window for a while looking and looking. The winner received a special treat. I always helped the youngest. Another activity, I had the 7 year old take pictures as we went, she took them of us, but also of some things I missed. Made her feel important that she was recording the trip for us. Make a list of everything you will need on the train so you don't forget anything. Good luck, Have fun, Hope you have a great trip your children will remember forever.