When you are in your twenties, planning and hosting a party is a relatively simple matter. You send out an invitation, pick up some beverages, select some music, and then just wait for your party guests to arrive. As you get older, however, and your friends begin starting their families, party planning gets much more difficult. Although some people choose to host parties that are explicitly adult only affairs, this can make it impossible for some friends to attend. Babysitters are expensive, and sometimes even finding one who is available for the time of your party can be impossible. If you want to make sure that as many of your friends as possible can attend your next shindig, your best option is to be inclusive and welcome children to your home. Of course, if your home is not already child-proof, there are several issues you need to keep in mind. Keep reading for tips on how to child-proof your home for your next party.
1. Pack Away Valuables
The first step to child-proofing your home for a party is to pack away your prized possessions, especially if these belongings are in any way fragile or breakable. Gather treasured figurines, glassware, and decor, and simply put them in a closet or other storage area until the party is over. Not only will this prevent any accidents, but you will also greatly reduce stress for your adult guests. If the breakable objects are all out of reach, your friends will not have to spend the entire party frantically trying to keep their children away from your priceless crystal collection instead of enjoying themselves. Trust me, moms and dads need downtime more than most.
2. Keep Child-Proofing Basics In Mind
Even though your home may only need to be childproofed for a few hours, keep basic safety principles in mind. Make sure all hazardous cleaning supplies are either in a locked cabinet or stored somewhere out of reach. Some items, such as laundry pods, are not only dangerous, but particularly appealing to young children who love to put anything colorful in their mouths. You should also make sure that outlet sockets are covered. A set of outlet covers only costs a few dollars and can prevent a serious accident. Make sure you have adequate aluminum fencing on your property.
3. Make Sure You Have Snacks and Beverages Kids Will Love
If parents are allowed and encouraged to bring their children to your party, remember your youngest guests when you plan your menu. Special snacks and beverages for kids will help children enjoy your party as much as their parents. Ask your friends if their children have any allergies or special dietary accommodations to make sure the evening goes off without a hitch.
4. Arrange An Activity For Your Youngest Guests
While adults usually have plenty of fun just mingling and visiting, kids often get bored if there is not something for them to do. Keep your kid guests out of mischief by arranging a special activity just for them. You might arrange a crafting activity, or set up a gaming system that they can play. Keep the ages of the children in mind as you pick your activity. Younger children will be frustrated if they cannot participate in the fun, and if you pick a craft with small pieces, these might pose a choking hazard for your youngest guests.
5. Consider Hiring A Babysitter For the Evening
The best way to make sure that everyone, both young and old, enjoys your party is to hire a babysitter for the evening. That way, parents can relax knowing their precious little ones will be well taken care of while they enjoy a snack, a drink, and some rare adult conversation. A local teenager might jump at the opportunity to earn a little cash, and you can send them home with extra party snacks at the end of the evening. Plus, with a babysitter helping out for the evening, you can enjoy your own party without worry.
Although it may seem strange at first to see children at your party, as long as you consider their needs in advance, your party will be one that everyone, adults and children alike, will enjoy and remember for years to come.