Because of the structure of
ticket prices, as well as the overall cost, I believe some (WDW management included) have lost sight of the fact that WDW is a
resort, not just a series of theme parks to be "done".
Back in the 70's when the only park was MK, guests still stayed for an entire week. It was a
vacation. They golfed, rented water craft, saw shows (luau, hoop-de-doo), visited MK on multiple days, enjoyed the pool. I was not mission to be accomplished, but a vacation to be enjoyed. Yes, it was a unique experience, having the Disney theme built in, but it was still a resort experience, like going to a dude ranch, or a tennis or golf resort.
That's not to say that guests don't enjoy their trips these days, but a good many return home more tired than when they arrived! Viewed as a "once in a lifetime" trip, and having so many theme parks included in a ticket, many feel obligated to fit it all in to "get their money's worth".
So I say, take 7-10 days and make it a
vacation. Buy the 7 day pass, but don't lament if you don't enter a park each of the 7 days (it doesn't cost that much more than a 4-day). Spend a day or 2 at the pool. Spend a morning at the pool, then go to a park in the afternoon/evening for a couple of rides and the parade/fireworks. SLEEP IN! Do a tour. Go to AK/AK lodge and just look at the animals. Find quiet things for your kids to experience (there are some) - so many park and non-park (Disney Quest comes to mind) experiences are so over-stimulating.
Of course, this is my opinion, and it comes from the perspective a frequent visitor (although not within reasonable driving distance). Everyone is obviously entitled to enjoy WDW in their own way.