As the countdown to midnight begins, parents everywhere are asking the same question: How do we ring in the New Year with our little ones by our side?
Forget the babysitter search, or sacrificing the festive spirit — this year, it's all about celebrating together. With a little planning and a mix of creative, kid-friendly activities, you can make this NYE one your whole family will remember!
From cozy PJ parties to goal-setting with the kiddos, get ready to create lasting memories that bring everyone into the countdown magic.
Get the Kids Excited for New Year's Eve
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 Crafts: 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.
Fun Activities to Celebrate NYE Together
Whether your family is staying in or heading out for New Year's Eve, we've got some fun ideas to spark creativity and keep the excitement high for everyone — no matter your plans or the ages of your kids!
If You're 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! Make it picture-perfect with Matching Pajamas for everyone (Celebration Stars is the perfect gold-foiled print for the occasion!).
• Create a kid-friendly New Year's Eve meal: We love a DIY pizza station. Set out mini pizza crusts with toppings like tomato sauce, cheese, mini pepperoni, and diced vegetables. Then, let kids customize their own mini pizzas - you can even help them spell out 2025!
• Mocktail mixology: Who says adults get to have all the fun? Set up a mocktail station with juices, soda, and sparkling water. Let your little mixologists concoct their own festive drinks. Add colorful straws and fun garnishes and watch your little ones' faces light up!
If You're Going Out...
• Find a community event: Check if there are family-friendly New Year's Eve events in your community. Some towns organize early celebrations or activities suitable for children, giving you enough time to celebrate and still make it to bed on time.
• Do something fun with neighbors: Organize a neighborhood get-together like a kids' parade (weather permitting!) or a celebration where different homes host party-themed pop-ups like a sparkling apple cider bar and photo booth. Bring an extra sweatshirt in case it gets chilly!
• Watch fireworks: 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 Cloud Blankets® and chairs for a cozy watch party.
Making Bedtime Special on New Year's Eve
Balancing the excitement of New Year's Eve with bedtime can be challenging, but a thoughtful approach helps maintain a sleep schedule while ensuring everyone has a memorable evening. Start by talking with your kids about the plan for the night, sharing the schedule, including when bedtime will be, and assuring them that there's plenty of fun to enjoy before it's time to sleep.
If you're letting toddlers or younger kids stay up late, consider a short afternoon nap to help them stay energized for the ball drop. For families going out, plan enough time to get the kids cozy in their Zippies before bed, perhaps even deciding that the party winds down before you get home, so they can relax after dancing with friends.
Finally, create a wind-down routine to ease into sleep by introducing calming activities as the night progresses, like playing quieter games, reading a story, or watching a soothing movie. This balance lets your little ones fully experience the excitement of New Year's while still getting the rest they need.
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!
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