As the clock ticks down to the final moments of the year, parents everywhere are faced with the perennial question: How can we safely celebrate New Year's Eve with our little ones in tow? This year, say goodbye to the stress of finding a babysitter and the usual New Year’s Eve celebration challenges, and hello to family fun for everyone.
Balance all of the festive excitement this year with entertaining and kid-friendly New Year's Eve activities. Get ready to create lasting memories for the entire family!
Activities to Get Ready for the Countdown
The anticipation of the new year can be just as fun as the actual party! Here are some activities you can organize for your kids to get them excited to start a new calendar year.
- Countdown Craft Extravaganza: Gather some craft supplies like colored paper, markers, glitter, and stickers. Encourage your kids to create their own countdown clocks or New Year's Eve hats that match their favorite Little Sleepies print.
- New Year's Resolutions for Kids: In the days leading up to the countdown, create New Year's resolutions together. Encourage your kids to set goals and aspirations for the coming year, whether it's learning a new skill, being kinder to others, or spending more time outdoors.
Family Fun Activities to Celebrate Together
Whether your family decides to stay home or go out on New Year's Eve, and it probably depends on the age of your children and overall circumstances, we have some ideas that are sure to spark creativity and build excitement for everyone.
Staying in
- Family game night: Bring out the board and card games for a night of friendly competition. Consider games that are suitable for all ages so everyone can participate. A family game night is a surefire way to keep everyone entertained until the clock strikes midnight (or earlier!). Add a little extra pizzazz with Matching Pajamas for everyone (Counting Stars is the perfect sparkly print for the occasion!).
- Create a kid-friendly New Year's Eve meal: We love a make-it-yourself pizza station. Set out mini pizza crusts with various toppings such as tomato sauce, cheese, mini pepperoni, sliced olives, and diced vegetables. Let kids customize their own mini pizzas - spell out 2024!
- Mocktail mixology: Who says adults get to have all the fun? Set up a mocktail station with various juices, soda, and sparkling water. Let your little mixologists concoct their own festive drinks. Add colorful straws and fun garnishes for a touch of glam.
- If you’re celebrating early or treating the kids to a late night, here are other ways to celebrate.
Going out
- Check if there are family-friendly New Year's Eve events in your community. Some places organize early celebrations or activities suitable for children, giving you enough time to celebrate and make bedtime.
- Organize a neighborhood get-together like a kids' parade (weather permitting!) or a festive progressive celebration where different homes host party-themed pop-ups like a sparkling apple cider bar and photo booth. Bring an extra hoodie or sweater in case it gets chilly.
- If your community is planning a fireworks display, gather in a central location to watch the fireworks together. Make sure it's a safe distance for the kids and bring blankets or chairs for a cozy watch party.
Time for Bed!
Balancing the excitement and energy of New Year's Eve with bedtime requires a thoughtful approach to maintaining a sleep schedule while ensuring everyone has a good time. Some things to consider:
- Communicate with your kids about the plan for the evening and what to expect. Let them know the schedule, including when bedtime will be. And assure them that there is plenty of fun to have before going to bed!
- Are you letting your toddlers or younger kids stay up late this year? Consider a short nap in the afternoon to help them stay energized for the ball drop.
- If you’re going out, give yourself enough time to get the kids comfy in their Zippies in time for bed. You may decide that the party ends well before you get home, allowing your kids to relax after dancing with friends.
- Create a wind-down routine that will make it easier to fall asleep. As the evening progresses, introduce activities that signal a winding-down period. This could include quieter games, reading a story, or watching a calming movie.
This New Year's Eve, make it a family affair filled with laughter and creativity. These kid-friendly activities and suggestions ensure that the countdown to midnight is exciting for everyone. Cheers to a year filled with love, laughter, and countless precious moments.
