To put it simply, sleepovers are a big deal. Children leave the security of their own family and home to spend time in yours. That is a big responsibility not to be taken lightly. When hosting a sleepover, you should always keep the kids in mind first and foremost. Are they comfortable? Are all the children getting along? Is the environment safe as well as entertaining? It takes a good bit of thought to host an awesome sleepover. Here are a few ideas on how to throw an awesome sleepover.
Activities
What to do at a sleepover? Activities are a must. Boredom will kill the party and then cause problems for everyone involved. Research various games for sleepovers. The list is almost unlimited. Movies, board games, and video games are also welcome ideas. Plan ahead and allot a certain amount of time for each activity. Children thrive with structure.
Food, Snacks, and Beverages
With all the fun stuff to do at a sleepover, don’t forget the kids need to eat. Avoid food and drinks that contain loads of sugar. Food can be fun and delicious and still be nutritious. Some sweets are okay, but balance them out with healthy treats as well. The trick to children and healthy food is making it fun. There are countless websites dedicated to fun, nutritious snacks.
Designated “Party Zone”
Set clear boundaries where the children are allowed to be in your home. It is a good idea to block off a certain part of the house to be reserved for the other family members. Give the kids a tour of the home and show them exactly where they are and are not allowed to be. The best idea is to keep the party contained to the living room, kitchen, and a bathroom. If the party will also be outside, always be sure to have an adult present.
Pictures
Take as many as you can. Sleepover pictures will be cherished forever. A cool activity idea would be to have the children make their own photo album to take home. Cardstock, a hole punch, some ribbon, and an imagination are all you need to make cool photo books. The next morning, print out select pictures and have the kids paste them in their albums. They will have a lifelong reminder of the great time they had.
Themes
Children always love theme parties and having the chance to dress up. It could be a luau, a pirate party, a princess party, or anything you can dream of. Be creative. Ask your child’s opinion. Design the sleepover games and foods around your theme. The idea is to have fun, no matter what you decide.
Give the Kids Space
So, here is a tricky one. You are completely and 100% responsible for each of the children. Yet, they really don’t want you around at every moment. You do not want to hover constantly over the party. This is a big moment of independence for the children being away from home. Let them have their space, but discreetly always have your eyes and ears clued in.
Relax and Enjoy
Hosting a party can be very stressful. The planning, the cost, and everything associated with pulling it off successfully. Try not to forget the reasons you are doing it in the first place. Mainly, you are providing a wonderful opportunity for your child to bond with his or her friends. Also, a lifelong memory will be created. Relax and enjoy yourself, and take comfort in knowing what you are doing is a very good thing.
What do you think about hosting a sleepover for our children’s friends?