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If you’re wondering how to keep a bushel full of kiddos happily occupied on your big day, you are in the right place, because we’re about to go deep on how to set up a fun and engaging kids table at your wedding - that doesn’t kill the vibe. Whether or not to have the littles at the big day is a polarizing question these days, but there is one thing that everyone can agree on - weddings can be tiring events for everybody.That’s why if you are planning on having kids at your wedding, you need to make sure you set up your miniature humans for success.
Setting up a dedicated kids table can go a long way in making the event truly enjoyable for everyone, including your youngest guests. Not only does a dedicated table keep the kids entertained, but it also allows parents to relax and fully enjoy the celebration as adults. This guide will help you create a fun and engaging kids table that will keep the little ones entertained and parents stress-free.
Why You Should Have a Kids Table at Your Wedding
Planning a wedding involves countless details, and considering the needs of your youngest guests can sometimes fall by the wayside. However, dedicating a special space for kids can make a world of difference. Here’s why we think it’s a great idea:
Keeps Kids Entertained: Weddings can be long events with lots of waiting time. A kids table equipped with fun activities ensures that children are entertained throughout the day, reducing boredom and restlessness.
Allows Parents to Relax: When children are happily occupied, parents can relax and enjoy the wedding without constantly worrying about keeping their kids entertained. This can be a huge relief and adds to the overall enjoyment of the event.
Prevents Disruptions: With a designated area for kids, you can minimize disruptions during key moments from toasts to the first dance. Kids can have their fun without interfering with the main event.
Shows Thoughtfulness and Care: Setting up a kids table shows that you’ve thought about the comfort and enjoyment of all your guests. It’s a small detail that can make a big impression, demonstrating your consideration and hospitality. Trust us, their parents will remember your thoughtfulness.
10 Steps To The Planning The Perfect Kids Table
Planning a kids table might seem like a minor detail, but getting it right can make a huge difference in the overall atmosphere of your wedding. With a little planning you can ensure a smooth, happy, melt-down free event! Here’s how to ensure your youngest guests have a blast:
Consider The Numbers: Make a list of the children attending and their ages. This will help you determine the size of the table and the amount of supplies needed.Think about the age range of the children attending your wedding. Activities and table settings will differ greatly for toddlers compared to pre-teens. Grouping kids by similar ages can help in planning appropriate activities and ensuring everyone has a good time. If you have a decent amount of younger guests, consider having both a “big-kid table” and a “little kid table”.
Understand Special Needs or Allergies: Be aware of any special needs or allergies the children might have. Communicate with parents beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary information.
Location, Location, Location: The kid’s table should be in a spot that’s close enough for parents to keep an eye on their children but far enough to allow the kids some independence. Ideally, it should be in a quieter area away from the main activities, where kids can play without disturbing the adults.
Kid Friendly Tables/Chairs: Choose tables and chairs that are the right size for children. Ensure they are sturdy and safe. Consider round tables for better interaction among kids and avoid sharp edges. Rental companies often have kid-sized furniture, so explore these options.
Menu Options For Kids: Most caterers will offer something mini-person appropriate, and many times these options even come at a lower cost. Talk to parents in advance and get a consensus in terms of what their kids will eat in order to avoid any hangry meltdowns. Items like pasta with butter, mac n cheese, chicken tenders or burger sliders with fries, or even fruit and cheese are usually safe choices when picky eaters are going to be in attendance.
Table Setting: While the adults will have their elegant table settings and favors, think of child friendly options for the kids table. Depending on the ages, you can opt to avoid glass plates and drinkware, or provide leak proof cups with lids. We like these fun multi-color sippy cups from Amazon. They come in a pack of 20 or 30 and in two different color schemes.
Activities in Lieu of Favors: Instead of a take home momento for the kids, focus on keeping them occupied during the event itself. We love these wedding themed coloring activity favor bags that come in sets of 24! From placemats they can color to small, in-seat crafts, these are great at keeping kids occupied and happy.
Table Games: Depending on the age range, table games could be a great way to pass time at the table. Wedding Bingo, I Spy, or simple card games are engaging and fun. You could also include some quiet toys like building blocks or small puzzles.
Comfort Considerations: Make sure the kids are comfortable. Provide cushioned chairs, blankets (like this pack of 6 fleece blankets from Amazon)for cooler weather, and consider setting up a napping area for very young children. Having a comfortable space ensures that kids can relax and recharge if needed.
Safety and Supervision: While having the kids occupied and entertained sounds easy, it’s important to remember a bunch of kids always comes with a little chaos. Ensure you have a game plan for who is in charge of handling outbursts, small quarrels, etc. Whether it’s the parents' job to mind their kids or you hire a nanny-for-the-night, ensure everyone is on the same page and that safety is always top of mind.
How To Elevate The Kids Table Concept
The kids table is a great idea for weddings with a small number of younger guests, however, elevating the kids table to a full-on, highly-curated, kid-friendly experience is becoming more and more popular. We’ve seen some couples go all-in on creating an epic experience for the kids complete with a hired, dedicated nanny-for-the-night, which, to be honest, is the best way to free up their parents for some adult celebrating. Here are some creative ideas to elevate the experience beyond the a simple kids table:
Kids Cocktail Hour
Kids Mocktail Bar: Set up a mini bar where kids can create their own mocktails. Provide a variety of juices, flavored sodas, and fun garnishes like fruit slices, umbrellas, and colorful straws. This can be a fun, interactive activity that mirrors the adult cocktail hour.
Story Time Corner: Hire a babysitter or dedicated "kid wrangler" to read stories in a cozy corner. Set up a small tent or a blanket fort with cushions and blankets to make it inviting. Choose a mix of classic fairy tales and modern favorites to keep all ages engaged.
Interactive Games: Host games like musical chairs, Simon says, or a mini scavenger hunt. These games can be set up in an area away from the adult cocktail hour to ensure kids have space to play without disturbing the grown-ups.
Activity Stations Throughout the Reception
Craft Station: Set up a table with craft supplies where kids can make wedding-themed crafts like decorating picture frames, making beaded jewelry, or creating their own paper flowers. This can keep them busy and also give them something to take home as a souvenir. Coloring books or wedding theme placemats are great, affordable ideas for any kids table.
Game Station: Provide a selection of board games, card games, and puzzles that are age-appropriate. Games like Jenga, Connect Four, and Uno can be great for keeping kids entertained.
Photo Booth with Props: Create a kid-friendly photo booth with fun props like hats, masks, and costumes. Kids can take silly photos and have a blast. You can even provide instant cameras so they can take home their photos as keepsakes.
Outdoor Activities: If your wedding venue has an outdoor space, set up lawn games like cornhole, Jenga (like this Giant Jenga set found on Amazon), bubble wands, or a ring toss. These games are not only fun for kids but can also be enjoyed by adults. We love this pack of colorful bubblewands on Amazon!
Dedicated Kids Entertainment
Hiring Professional Entertainers: Consider hiring professionals like magicians, balloon artists, or face painters who can provide dedicated entertainment for the kids. This can be a highlight of the day and keep children captivated for hours.
Kids Dance Floor: Set up a small dance floor just for the kids with music they love. Hiring a DJ who can play kid-friendly music and lead dance games like the limbo or the Hokey Pokey can be a hit.
Movie Corner: Create a mini movie theater with a projector and a screen or a large TV. Show popular kids movies or cartoons and provide popcorn and bean bags for a comfy viewing experience.
Quiet Time Options
Quiet Play Area: For younger children or those who might need a break from the excitement, set up a quiet play area with soft toys, books, and puzzles. This can be a calming space where kids can unwind.
Napping Zone: If your wedding is an all-day affair, consider setting up a napping zone with mats, blankets, and pillows where young children can take a nap if needed. This can be particularly helpful for parents with very young kids.
Whether you decide to keep it simple with a single dedicated table for the kids, or plan on going all-out by creating a custom wedding experience for your youngest guests, is simply a matter of preference and budget. Whatever you decide to do, be sure you have the details mapped out just as you would any other element of your wedding day. With a little forethought and planning, you ensure that the kiddos will remain entertained and engaged, and allow their parents to relax and enjoy the celebration.
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