Are you planning a social event? Whether you are getting married, hosting a big birthday bash, or celebrating a graduation, you will likely have a guest list that includes a range of ages, including children. As an adult, it can be hard to put yourself in a child’s shoes and understand how to cater to them, especially if you have no children of your own. So, if you are inviting kids to your event and want to ensure they are both safe and included, here is how.
Include a Variety of Food
Children are notoriously picky eaters. They might grow into an adult with a refined palate eventually, but the chances are a five-year-old will not appreciate sushi or oysters or caviar on the menu. So, even if you’re hosting a business event with business event catering, also include foods that most children love. A separate children’s menu would work well here, and you could still ensure it’s delicious and on theme! Meals like fruit bowls, burgers, muffins, and mac and cheese will likely go down a treat.
Consider Safety
You should always consider child safety when inviting kids to an event. You can walk through the venue to see if there is anything potentially dangerous, such as exposed hard corners that kids might run into. It’s generally best to choose a wide, open venue for events with kids, as this way they are always visible and their parents can keep an eye on them. You should also consider accessibility and changing facilities. Kids need easy access to toilets, for example.
Include a Kid’s Area
Your whole event does not need to revolve around the kids – to ensure everyone is happy, include a kid’s area separate from the main event. You can include fun, interactive activities in the children’s section, such as painting, board games, and toys. It is a place for kids to go to where they have things that will hold their attention.
Be Mindful of Entertainment
Your event needs to be child-friendly, which means being mindful of entertainment. In particular, do not choose entertainment that is overly adult. Some comedians and musicians may include curse words in their performances, for example, and you will obviously want to avoid this! You could even host a separate entertainment for the kids, such as a magician.
Let Families Sit Together
Most parents will want to keep a close eye on their children during the entire event. While having a kid’s table during a meal seems like a good idea, consider that moms and dads may want to be seated with their children. Letting families sit together means the children are more likely to be well looked after (and told to behave if necessary!).
Consider New Mothers
You may have guests who are new mothers. In this case, you must accommodate them as much as possible. Provide easy access to changing facilities, and have a designated area where new mothers can use a breast pump. It would also be very helpful to add a space (such as refrigerators) where mothers can store their filled breast milk bottles, complete with labels of their names.
In Summary
A child-friendly event can be just as enjoyable as one only for adults. By considering things like children’s activities, food for kids, accessibility, and safety, you are more likely to put on an event that will go down well with all ages. The parents will surely be grateful – as will the little ones!
