Hosting a house full of kids for the holidays? Plan ahead to entertain guests of all ages.
“If you want your party to be a success, it’s important to do your research,” says Traci Napier, MS, child development center manager at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “Knowing the age and development of kids who are coming will help you plan everything from activities to childcare to the menu.”
Keep the following tips in mind as you prepare for your party, and get ready to have some fun!
- Pick up the phone. Find out how old your littlest guests are and whether they have any food allergies or dislikes so you can plan menus accordingly.
- Set up fun zones. Establish areas for arts and crafts, snacks, and games such as Twister or Monopoly. It’s also a good idea to have classics such as Legos and Play-Doh on hand to satisfy children with a wide variety of interests.
- Serve simple snacks. Easy-to-prepare options like mini pizzas or veggies and dip can be a big hit.
Check out our Age-Appropriate Toys brochure to find out which items are best for kids of different ages.
