Kids’ tables at parties are often thrown together as an afterthought to give the kids a spot to eat. Away from the adults. Away from the nice dishware. And at shorter tables so booster seats aren’t needed. But what if you treat the kids’ table as a space for kids-only activities?
A well-stocked kids’ table doesn’t just keep the little guests happy and entertained. It gives parents a chance to relax and enjoy themselves. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family cookout, a holiday party, or a neighborhood get-together, here are some things you need to create a kids’ table that’s functional and fun.
Kids’-Sized Table and Comfortable Seating
First thing’s first: Make sure the table and chairs fit your guests. A full-sized dining table likely isn’t the right size for younger kids, so do your best to find something more comfortable. If you don’t have access to kid-sized furniture, try using a low coffee table with cushions or beanbags. Grab a card table and some folding chairs. Or even go camping-style and put picnic blankets and pillows on the floor.
And of course, if you’re planning to use the space for crafts or meals, make sure that you have something sturdy.
Kid-Friendly Table Cover
Spare your nice table linens and switch them out for something that welcomes a mess. Use kraft paper, butcher paper, or a disposable plastic tablecloth. Not only will these protect the table, they can double as a coloring sheet. Put some crayons and markers out and let the kids get to work. You can even draw shapes or doodles for the kids to color in when they sit down or set them up for simple games like tic-tac-toe or hangman.
Kid-Friendly Tableware
It goes without saying that you should probably avoid anything sharp or breakable when setting your kids’ table. Go for colorful, themed plates, napkins, and cups that match the party vibe. Look for sturdier options that hold up to kid-sized hands and spills. You can go a step further and choose cups that have lids and straws.
Pro tip: Skip the sharp, flimsy plastic cutlery and go with finger foods whenever possible.
Pre-Portioned Food and Snacks
Keeping kids away from the main buffet line can save lots of parental headaches. Serve the kids their own snack trays or individual lunchboxes. This keeps things organized and helps limit messes. Avoid any mealtime meltdowns by going with familiar foods like:
- Fruit skewers or cut fruit
- Mini sandwiches or wraps
- Cheese cubes or string cheese
- Crackers, pretzels, or chips
- Cookies or brownie bites
Built-In Entertainment
The Kids’ Table doesn’t have to be just for eating. And it shouldn’t be. Keep them engaged at the table with activities that are easy to manage and don’t require much adult supervision like:
- Coloring books, construction paper, or printed activity sheets
- Stickers, stencils, and stamps
- Sidewalk chalk
- Temporary tattoos
- Bead kits (for your older kids)
- Puzzles
- Legos
- Bracelet making kit
Personal Touches
Make each kid feel special by personalizing their place at the table. Name cards, mini chalkboard signs, personalized placemats, or a small party favor at each seat. Not only will this make the kids feel special, it will keep seating organized.
Cleanup Supplies Within Reach
Everyone can be messy. But kids are particularly mess-prone. Set yourself up for easy cleanup of both surprise and expected messes. Keep a few items nearby:
- Baby wipes or hand wipes
- A small trash bin or bag
- Paper towels or napkins for spills
- Stain sticks
Post-Meal Entertainment
Once the pre-meal activities are done and the food is eaten, kids will be ready to move. Consider setting up some adjacent activities so they can transition from sitting to playing (and burning off some of that energy before the drive home). Depending on your space, you could:
- Set up a bubble machine or bubble wands
- Create a small obstacle course or relay games
- Books, puzzles, dolls, or blocks
Conclusion
The kids’ table should be more than just a place to eat. It’s the home base for all the littles at your gathering. It’s a space all their own where they can avoid the adults (and their boring conversations). It’s a party zone with plenty of excitement to keep them occupied. And when the kids are entertained, the grown-ups get to enjoy the party too.
Kadi McDonald is a freelance writer, marketing strategist, and proud Cleveland sports fan.
