Weddings are occasions that are often enjoyed by the whole family. But while adults can appreciate the speeches, dinner, and dancing, kids may not be as enthused by these activities. And trust us – the last thing you want is a bunch of pouty, teary-eyed little ones an inch away from throwing a temper tantrum. That is why if you plan to invite children to your celebration, it’s essential to ensure they’ll have something to do.
Luckily, there are ways to keep your littlest wedding guests entertained. Here are some of our favorite solutions:
Hire entertainers
If budget isn’t an issue, consider hiring special entertainment for the kids, such as clowns, magicians, jugglers, caricaturists, or face painters. Weddings can last for several hours, so it’s inevitable for young ones to get a little restless. This way, they can have fun and be occupied while you and your guests enjoy the festivities without having to worry about the kids being bored.
Have a designated play area
If you have room, consider setting up a mini indoor playground where kids can enjoy activities like coloring and puzzles. Or if there’s an outdoor space available, you can also arrange for some lawn games like tag or hopscotch. This gives them a place where they can run around without disturbing other guests. This option is particularly great for younger children who still need thorough supervision.
Set up a kids’ table
This is a great (and adorable) way to give the children a sense of importance. Have an area where they can be seated together with coloring books, crayons, and other fun activities prepared for them. They’ll love being able to socialize with their peers during the wedding! (A much more appealing alternative than boring them out of their minds as they sit through the speeches or formalities of the evening.) Imagine how cute they’d look, all dressed up and having a grand time at their own special table.
Create a kid-friendly menu
Kids can get picky about their food, so it is important to prepare something that will suit their taste buds too. Ask your caterer if they can whip up some kid-friendly dishes like chicken nuggets or macaroni and cheese. (It’s a celebration, and we can’t have the little ones running around on empty and unhappy tummies!) You can also have a designated dessert table for them with items like cookies and cupcakes, which they’ll definitely love.
Rent out a photo booth
Kids are always up for a photo session! Ask your wedding planner if they can arrange for a photo booth and some props, like funny hats and glasses. This way, the children can have all the fun they want while taking silly snapshots with their friends and family. Plus, these simple souvenirs will make great mementos of the day!
Organize a treasure hunt
What’s more exciting than going on adventures and solving puzzles? Hide unique keepsakes around the venue and give them clues to find each item in order to receive a prize. This will allow them to explore the area while having a blast. Just make sure you provide enough adult supervision!
Set up a game station
If you have any board games or video consoles lying around in your house, bring them to the wedding reception to serve as the ultimate kid-friendly activity. This can be an excellent way for kids to pass the time while they wait for the adults to finish their conversations. For board or card games, make sure you have enough copies of each available so there won’t be any fights over who gets to play what!
Offer a quiet zone
If you have some socially shy kids in the mix, create an area where they can relax and take a breather from all the noise and excitement. Have items like books, art materials, and puzzles ready for them to pick up so they can have something to do if things get overwhelming. This could be any place at the venue, but it’s best to choose one with a calming vibe.
Let them be part of the wedding ceremony
If you want to make the kids feel extra special, consider having them participate in the ceremony! Maybe they can help with carrying flowers or handing out programs to guests. Or, they can even be part of the ring exchange ceremony, where they become honorary members of your entourage. This is a great way to give them more significant involvement in the event, which can make them happier and feel more appreciated.
Choose kid-friendly music
To keep the energy up and have a good time, make sure to include some upbeat music that kids will adore. Play songs from their favorite artist or genre, as well as classic tunes that parents can dance to with their little ones. This way, you’ll be able to create a celebratory atmosphere where everyone can join in on the fun!
Have fun activities during intermissions
A lot of things happen during a wedding, but there are usually a few moments in between events. Use these intermissions and have some interactive activities ready; think charades, musical chairs, or even a dance competition that kids can join! This way, they’ll be able to take a break from the more grown-up segments and just let loose as they strut their stuff on the dancefloor.
Consider having a kid-friendly bar
Kids love feeling grown up, too! Ask your caterer if they can create some mocktails or fruit juices that kids would like. This way, they can have a “drink” (all in good fun!) and mingle with other guests. And just how many weddings do you know that offer a Kid-Friendly Bar? Totally unique and refreshing!
Provide a place for them to lie down
Kids are usually very energetic at the start of the wedding. But they can tire quickly as time passes and need time to rest. (Especially with the younger ones, who can get pretty cranky if they don’t get their nap). Set up a comfortable area with bean bags, pillows, and blankets so they can have some much-needed shut-eye once in a while. This will give them the energy they need as they transition from one activity to another.
(While not entertainment-related, it’s essential to also make sure there are enough bathrooms. It can be difficult for young ones to hold it in when they really need to go, so make sure there are enough bathrooms available.)
Consider hiring a babysitter
If there’s an abundance of kids attending your wedding, you can always opt to hire a professional sitter who will keep them company and make sure they are safe in case they wander off. This is also a great way to give the adults a chance to have some quality time without having to worry about what the kids are up to.
Prepare a movie corner
If you have a free area with a projector, set up some comfortable chairs and blankets and play some family-friendly movies that kids would be fond of. And, of course, don’t forget the popcorn and other snacks they can munch on while they watch! With the lights dimmed and everyone watching a movie together, it can be a fun and unique way to keep the little sweethearts entertained.
Prepare some fun favors
Children are always delighted to receive gifts. You can prepare goody bags filled with candy and small trinkets like bubbles, stickers, or books that they can take home with them. You can also include items that are themed around the wedding, such as mini figurines, personalized keychains, or hand-made cards. This will be a great way to end the night and keep them entertained until it’s time for them to go.
Make a special announcement for them
You can make the occasion even more memorable by having your MC announce something specifically for the children. It doesn’t have to be anything grand or fancy, but a simple request to have the kids stand up and cheer will add a touch of joy and excitement to the celebration. It can also be an announcement of their favorite song or a personal message from you and your spouse-to-be. Anything that will bring out big smiles on their faces!
*Bonus Tip:
For older kids attending your wedding (around 10-12 years old and up), you can give them their own camera and let them take photos of the wedding. They’ll love being able to document the day, plus it’s a great way to keep them occupied! And how nice would it be to see the wedding through a kid’s eye? You will surely receive some unique and memorable photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to planning a wedding, you should never forget about your youngest guests. If you consider their needs, then you’re sure to end up with smiling, happy kids who had just as much fun as the adults on your most-awaited day.
What are your thoughts on these tips? Share them with us in the comments section!
