I think my kiddos are finally old enough to take that leap to a kid’s table for upcoming holiday family celebrations. They no longer need me to feed them (although the five year old might argue with that) and honestly I think it will be fun for the kids and the grown-ups. A table within reach but maybe this year my wine won’t get spilled and I’ll end up with less pie on my shirt? Maybe…
Today I have put together a fun, practical and easy list of ways to make your kid’s table awesome, fun and hopefully something your kids and guests will be thankful for.
- Tablecloth Art Project – Having something that protects the table. and entertains little ones is a win-win! I love the cute look of this coloring table cloth that the kid’s can help decorate. I found this one online and this one which look great. Another option is to take some craft paper and Sharpies and create a homemade one.
- Name Cards – A wonderful way to reinforce letter and name recognition while giving little guests a sense of belonging and welcome. I used some black close pins on thank you cards, writing names on the clothespins with chalk. You could also write the names right on the cards.
- Cloth Napkins – Children love being able to do things that grown-ups do, cloth napkins are a fun touch kids love, plus you can make a pocket for silverware (maybe thwarting some of those fork floor drops).
- Orange Clove Air Fresheners – This is a fun activity for little hands that makes a natural and festive air freshener. All you need are some oranges and whole cloves. Let kiddos push the cloves into the oranges to make them. If you have a really tough orange you can pre punch the holes with a toothpick.
- Water – Keep kids hydrated with bottles or cups with water. There will be lots of yummy food and treats, but water will do wonders for their digestive systems so make sure they have plenty.
- Healthy Pre-Dinner Snacks – Stop kids from getting hangry with some fresh veggies for a pre-dinner snack. Fresh veggies make a great snack that won’t spoil appetites.
- Books – Set out a basket of seasonal books to keep kids entertained. Helping connect what’s going on in the moment with literature.
- Games – Have some kid’s games ready to keep kiddos entertained, either before dinner or after they have finished eating and you haven’t even made yourself a plate yet.
- Ask Them Questions – Use a chalkboard, white board or large piece of paper and ask them what they are thankful for, remind them there are no silly answers. Teaching gratitude is always important.
- Easy Clean-up Rug – Use a table cloth under the table to protect the floor and give you and easy clean-up. When you’re ready to clean up just scoop up, shake over trash, then throw in the washing machine with the cloth napkins.
- Kid Taken Photos – Let kids take their own pictures either with a disposable or kid-
friendly camera. A great way to get some fun shots of the day from the kid perspective.
