For Restless Children
Weddings are joyous occasions to celebrate love, but we can’t ignore the fact they require sitting still and being quiet for prolonged periods. For restless children accustomed to screens and stimulation, this can equal torture worse than triple math lessons.
As a parent, keeping your little ones content means everyone enjoys the day. The last thing the happy couple needs is a grumpy flower girl throwing petals like angry darts or a ring bearer screaming as if the rings were hot coals.
With some planning and creativity, you can transform what kids see as a stuffy grown-up affair into a fun day packed with entertainment. Here are ideas to keep kids smiling from the ceremony to the last dance.
Help with Jobs
First, make kids feel involved by giving them small responsibilities. Bigger roles like ring bearer or flower girl make them feel proud playing a part in the important event. Smaller tasks also help, like handing out programs or escorting guests to seats.
Just remind them of proper wedding manners first—no throwing petals at Uncle Joey’s shiny head!
Fun with Fashion
Allowing kids to look their best bolsters confidence and excitement. Don’t stuff girls into rigid taffeta dresses if they’d rather wear a princess gown. Let boys swap stifling tiny tuxedos for sharp shorts suits or their favorite Superhero t-shirt under a blazer.
When kids feel like their best selves, their joy shines through. Those snazzy shoes and play swords make for awesome dance floor props too.
Activity Packs
Keep idle hands occupied with personalized activity packs. Throw in:
- Crayons, paper, coloring books
- Handheld games like Simon or Electronic Mario
- Mad Libs, word searches, crosswords
- Playdoh or stress balls
- Books, comics, or little toys like fidget spinners
Stash packs under chairs or at a kids’ table to avoid “I’m bored” meltdowns.
Engaging Activities
Sprinkle interactive elements throughout the day to hold kids’ interest.
Ceremony: Provide activity books or have them count how many times the officiant says “love.”
Cocktail hour: Set up lawn games like giant Jenga or cornhole.
Reception: Get kids moving with the Chicken Dance or Macarena when the DJ plays unavoidable cheesy hits.
Downtime: Set up a kids’ play corner with toys, books, and games for when their energy drains. Beanbags and floor pillows make cozy crash zones.
Catering to Kids
Fuel grumpy kids and picky eaters with kid-friendly menus. Chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and fruit kebabs prevent hungry meltdowns. For variety, add DIY taco/nacho or sundae bars.
Seat kids together with games, puzzles, and coloring to occupy them during courses. Or have staff serve their meals first so they aren’t last in line and famished.
Outstanding Childcare
For very young guests, trained childcare eases parents’ minds. Provide:
- A staffed area for kids too young to participate
- Age-appropriate toys, games, and videos
- Napping space with cots and blankets
- Diaper supplies, wipes, change station
- First aid kit, emergency contact info
Vet caregivers thoroughly and communicate instructions to ensure excellent care.
Family Dances
Carve out special moments to make kids beam.
Father/daughter, mother/son dances make them feel valued. Have the DJ play songs like “Sweet Child O’ Mine” they’ll get excited about.
Announce a 15-minute kids’ dance floor takeover so they can boogie and feel like VIPs. Play music they love and hand out glow sticks to pump up the fun.
Departing Delight
Send kids home with sweet takeaways like cookies, and sweets, they’ll talk about their special role in the wedding for weeks!
While it takes effort, creating fun memories for kids means the world to parents. And happy kids mean more peaceful nuptials for all. Embrace laughter, activity, and joy to make weddings truly family celebrations.