Bringing your little kids to a holiday party? 5 tips to make sure they stay out of trouble

Charlene Prince Birkeland, Lifestyle Editor
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Photo Credit: Getty Images

You get the invite in the mail to a holiday party and it says, "Bring the kids!"

Now, if you are close to the host, you'll probably already know that they have everything covered to keep the kids in check so all the parents in attendance can enjoy the party. For real.

But we've all been to a party or two that says the kids are invited and yet...there's nothing for the little ones to do but hang on mom and dad.

So let's fix that, shall we? Here are five tips to help you make sure your kids are having fun, staying out of trouble, and letting mom and/or dad enjoy the holiday festivities:

  • When you confirm your attendance, verify the "kids are welcome" policy. A simple, "Are you sure we can bring the kids?" question will hopefully cause your host to say, "Of course! We'll have some games for the children and we will set up a movie." Even better? "We'll have a babysitter on hand to help the parents out."

  • Bring a bag of activities and little snacks for your kid(s). Don't ever assume your host will have toys and games that are age appropriate for your child. Pack a bag with some books and a few small, favorite toys/puzzles/games that will keep your kid occupied. Also, don't forget to pack a few snacks. Ever been to a party where your kid won't go near the fancy food? Be prepared. Nothing worse than a hungry kid hitting the melting point.

  • Talk to your child(ren) about manners. If your kid is in the preschool/early grade school stage, let your kid know how you expect them to behave. Oh I know, I know. Your child always behaves in public, natch. But a little reminder never hurts.

  • Be realistic. If your kid has had a rough day and is tired, just know that you're not going to be sticking around 'til the end of the party. Set a mental time limit and know that you'll be able to change it if things are going bad (leave earlier) or good (stay later, woot!).

  • Get a babysitter and leave the kids at home. Seriously. Repeat after me: There is absolutely nothing wrong with leaving the kids at home with a babysitter even though children were invited to the party.