How to Host the Best Summer Sleepover
Summer’s the perfect time to host a sleepover for the kids and their friends. School’s out, the weather’s warm, and there are plenty of activities for them to enjoy. Depending on their age and interests, you may need a lot of prep time or barely any. Keep it simple with a classic movie night, or go all out with backyard camping under the stars. It’s always a good idea to do a little planning to ensure everyone has a great and memorable time. Follow these tips to make your next summer sleepover their best yet.
Choose a Great Theme
One of the best ways to make your sleepover stand out is to pick a fun theme. This component will also help the organizing go more smoothly, as you can plan the rest of the night around it. Let your child’s age and interests inspire you! It can be anything from a karaoke party to a whodunnit mystery game. Crafting or a spa night with makeovers are more fun ideas. Once you choose the theme, get creative with the activities, food, and decorations. For example, turn your living room into a jungle theme by decorating it with stuffed animals or plants and greenery.
Limit the Guest List
When it’s time to send out invitations, limit how many friends your kids invite. Choose a number you’re comfortable with by considering the age of your guests. For example, younger children need more supervision, so you may want to keep the list small. Your space will also determine how many people to invite depending on how many kids’ sleeping bags you can fit. Older kids will probably want to stay up all night, so give them a separate space to hang out without disturbing the rest of the family.
Send Out the Invitations
The younger the kid, the more daunting it can be sending them off for a sleepover. Help the other parents feel more at ease by sending out your invitations well ahead. Include as much info as possible, such as sleeping arrangements and contact details. Also, add a list of what to bring, such as toothbrushes and kids’ pajamas.
Invitations are a great way to help you plan, too. For example, by including an RSVP request, you can get an idea of how many guests to prepare for. This is also a great opportunity to ask guests about any food allergies or sensitivities they may have.
Design the Menu
Once you know how many kids are sleeping over, it’ll be easier to decide what to feed them. Pizza is always a classic choice because it’s quick, easy, and delicious. You can order in or make your own as a sleepover activity. Tacos are another reliable crowd-pleaser. Set up a taco station in the kitchen and let guests build their own. If you have a backyard, you can also fire up the grill for hotdogs or burgers. Also, keep plenty of snacks on hand. Think classic party treats, such as popcorn, trail mix, potato chips, candy, and marshmallows.
Plan the Hangout Spots
Your guests will need a spot to hang out and sleep in. Depending on your space, this may be the same area of the house or different ones. For younger kids, pick somewhere that’s easy to supervise. The sleeping spot is the most important, so plan it beforehand to ensure everyone has enough space to feel comfortable. Create a cozy atmosphere by layering cushions and blankets in a circle.
Organize Activities and Games
Having activities or games planned for the night is a great way to ensure kids are tired when it’s time for bed. The structure will also help ease any anxieties or tensions that may come up during the night. There are plenty of activities and games to choose from to find something age-appropriate and fun. For example, if you’re hosting a spa night sleepover, make DIY beauty masks. Fashion fans will love creating their own outfits from recyclables and walking in their own runway show. Hosting sports fans? Set up your own Olympic Games in the backyard or pool.
Serve a Delicious Breakfast
In the morning, wake guests well before their parents arrive to pick them up. This will ensure everyone has enough time to wash up, get dressed, and pack their backpacks without rushing. A delicious breakfast is a great motivator for even the sleepiest guests. Keep it simple with cereal, toast, and fruit, or go all out with a cooked meal. Either way, guests will leave on a high note—and with a full belly.
Even the simplest sleepovers can turn magical with just a bit of planning. From choosing a great theme to serving a delicious breakfast, these tips will help you ensure everyone has the best time.