Children at weddings is a topic that gets raised time and time again on our busy forum. How do you keep them happy? What jobs can you give them? Here, Laura White from Tinies Creche reveals 10 brilliant ways to keep them entertained…
Paper Chase
Download colouring pages, word searches, crosswords, spot the difference from the internet, make sure you give out with crayons or coloured pencils to avoid mess to clothes and tableware.
Silent Scavenger Hunt
Create a tick sheet of things to listen out for or observe during the wedding – what colour are the bridesmaids’ dresses, what songs were sung, did the best man remember the rings, how many were wearing hats.
Book Corner
Have a range of books to cover differing ages of children at weddings. Put on tables or set up in a corner with bean bags – great for sleepy ones later in the evening too.
Box of Tricks
Create boxes of simple toys such as bubbles, board games (travel ones are cheaper and smaller), jigsaws, and play dough – hassle free distractions for children without the need for too much adult help.
Children Only Room
Create a child-only space with TVs/DVD players, games consoles, books and board games. Children at weddings also love dressing up, craft activities/painting, sand trays and play dough.
VIP
Create tasks for children involved in the wedding to earn VIP badges – roles can range from marshalling guests to the right place to holding their bouquet up the right way for younger bridesmaids.
Outdoor Games
Organise walks around the grounds or do nature searches using small bags to collect what is found. Also provide simple sports equipment such as balls, Frisbees, or cricket sets.
Entertainer
Entertainers are a more expensive option when planning your wedding. Although they’ll keep little ones busy, you will need to provide another room for the performance. Be aware, though, that unlike a crèche, parents will still be responsible for supervision of their children.
Babysitters
Babysitters work well if the wedding is being held in a hotel. The babysitters can look after individual children or families in their hotel rooms bringing some basic equipment and also putting the children to bed.
Mobile Crèche
The most expensive option but it really is the ultimate answer, and many opt to share the costs with parents. A team will bring all equipment; will be responsible for your children and their entertainment for the whole wedding and even into the night with a sleepover.
Have your say on children at weddings
Who do you think should be responsible for children at weddings? Is it the bride’s responsibility to provide entertainment? Are you inviting children to your wedding? Tell us all about it below!
