Box Mixes and Butcher Paper: Host a Play-Filled Gathering The Easy Way
Hosting tips for keeping children occupied so adults can hang out.
My kids are older now (17, 15, and 11), but even when they were little, one of my favorite things was opening our doors to lots of kids and parents for play, art, food, and drinks. I am not a great cook, I use box mixes to bake, and I am terrible at planning ahead, but I still love hosting!
Nothing makes me happier or more grateful than looking around my home when it's bursting with my kids and their friends, the sound of their laughter and roughhousing, and lots of food.
Here are a few tips and tricks I used when they were little to get the kids settled so that the adults could actually have a conversation or two:
1. Butcher Paper Tablecloths
Ditch the fancy linen and use butcher paper as your tablecloth. Not only is it affordable and easy to clean up, but it also serves as a giant canvas for kids and their grownups. (Adults can’t resist a doodle or two when the paper is out and the crayons are right there). Scatter crayons and stickers across the table and the kids will draw and decorate. This can be particularly helpful for children who need time to warm up to the crowd. It gives them something to do with their hands and they can focus on creating instead of feeling uncomfortable. During the meal, it will keep children engaged and allow the adults to savor their meals and conversation a bit longer.
2. Outdoor Appetizers and Play
Even if it is cold, set up some snacking tables outside. Alongside the food, provide outdoor activities like chalk, a football or a kickball, and wheeled toys. This gets kids playing and expending energy, while adults mingle. If you have a Solo Stove, light it up for warmth and ambiance. Getting outside is great for everyone, and it eases the crowding in the kitchen during those last-minute meal preparations. (We have had our Solo Stove for 5 years and we still use it all the time. It is on major sale today for Cyber Monday.)
3. Food
Whether you are serving a formal holiday meal or takeout, ease your guest’s worries about picky eaters by prepping some kid-friendly apps and sides. Think mac and cheese cups, pasta with butter, bread, crackers, fruit cups, etc. This way, your guests can relax and not stress over what their kids are eating (or not eating) during the party. Make extra because grownups love kid foods too!
4. Involve Your Kids in Prep
Anticipation is half the fun, especially when you are little! In the days leading up to the event, ask your children what kind of jobs they want to help with. For example, collecting and putting coats away, looking out for children who need help getting started playing and offering to play with them, making decorations ahead of time, etc. Giving your kids real jobs helps them feel big and important, which will impact their behavior big time!
5. Dessert Making Station
Create a make-ahead dessert station where kids can get hands-on in preparing their own treats. Offer simple ingredients for them to mix and match. Think fruit skewers, sugar cookies with frosting and various sprinkles to decorate, or pre-scooped ice cream in cups with toppings to choose from. If weather permits, a bonfire with smores is always a hit with kids and adults!
6. Holiday PJS and Movie Marathon
Before the event, encourage parents to bring PJs for the kids. Once dinner is done and the dishes are cleared, settle the kids down with a holiday-themed movie. This can be the perfect wind-down activity and give adults the chance to relax or catch up with each other. Check commonsensemedia.org for the ratings you can trust on what’s appropriate.
If you love to host children and families, comment and let us know your best tips.
*Our holiday guides were created with longevity in mind. Check them out here.
PLAY TIP:
Instead of complicated holiday crafts, try adding a few holiday-themed loose parts to toys your child already knows how to use and loves. Why? It’s less work for you and more fun for them. Kids use play to process what’s on their minds… HOLIDAYS! When you use toys they are already familiar with and give them a holiday twist, they’ll get right to work. It will save you from complicated crafts, whining, and burnout.
For example, try putting out some magnetic tiles with miniature Santas, wreaths, animals, etc. Lay everything out on a small table in the kitchen or wherever you’ll be spending time. Let them discover it on their own and play on their own terms.
Happy Holidays and best wishes for peace in the new year.
x Lizzie
