Holiday Entertaining with Kids — Skybox Event Productions

Dec 23

Dec 23 Holiday Entertaining with Kids

Being the second oldest among 30 cousins means that the Holidays are a big deal, and keeping everyone’s age in mind is extremely important when planning a holiday bash. I have had the extreme honor of being asked to give Moms and party-throwers alike some advice on having a kid-friendly holiday party that the adults will enjoy as well.

Check out the full article in All You Magazine on newsstands now. But for now, here are some of my favorite tips to make your holiday party kid and adult friendly!

Planning is your best friend when it comes to any party, but especially one where kids will be present, as we know they are not the most patient people on the planet:

How does entertaining children in addition to adults affect your menu?

Entertaining for both adults and kids does not have to be difficult. Everyone loves an action station – this allows all of your guests to pick and choose their own food. From picky eaters to adults who want a little bit of everything, creating an action bar, such as a mashed potato bar, will allow each and every guest to have fun with food, which honestly, isn’t that the point of hosting a party?!?

What does having kids’ food mean in terms of dinnerware? Should you use all plastic ware or paper goods or just provide separate non-breakable stuff for the kids?

Having kids at your party does not mean that your décor has to plastic. There are a ton of great options for serving foods that won’t break if someone gets too excited over a gift. Chinese-style take out boxes are a great non-breakable and portable way for kids to enjoy their dinner. Have each kid pick a color box and fill it up with food. That way all the parents know whose box belongs to whom. Or, if you are having a meat and cheese platter, but those same ingredients into finger sandwiches and serve them to the kids-no plates needed!

During the party, you want to make sure that you can relax and enjoy the party with all kids and adults in attendance. These tips will help make the party THE party of the holiday season.

What kinds of activities work best with kids in this type of setting?

The best types of activities for these kinds of parties would be any activity that does not involve running around. For example a coloring contest, building gingerbread houses, or making stockings are all great (quiet!) activities for kids.

If there are kids in preschool as well as older kids, like tweens and teens, what might you want to do differently to ensure everyone is happy?

If your guests are ranging in age, get them to work on something that they can all do together. Pairing them up in teams and building a gingerbread house is a great way for them to bond, and have a great time. Make sure to have prizes for the winners, something that all age ranges would enjoy.

The Holidays are the most special and meaningful time of the year, and by doing a little pre-party brainstorming and planning, you can ensure all of your guests will have a blast, no matter their age!