Tips for Hosting a Dinner Party With Kids at Home

You can have a dinner party…

and keep your kids happily occupied, too

Oh children, how we love them… but they’re not always the ideal dinner party guests. Between keeping little hands away from the oven and miniature fingers out of the appetizer dips, sometimes your soirées are simply smoother when the kids are busy elsewhere. But let’s be honest—that’s not always realistic.

Here’s how to host a dinner party with kids at home—and ensure they enjoy the night as much as your guests do.

How to not let this happen: Read on.

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Young Kids (Ages 0–3)

For infants and toddlers, it’s all about early bedtime. Start the party after their evening routine, and if possible, bring in a sitter or designate someone to manage wind-down time. A sound machine in their room can help block out party sounds and ease FOMO (yes, even babies get it these days). Think of it as their own curated calm zone.

Older Kids (Who Aren’t Headed to Bed Early)

They might not be seated at the grown-up table, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have their own version of the evening. Create a low-lift, on-theme kids’ experience and everyone wins.

1. Craft Time

Give them a themed project. If you’re hosting a Campfire evening, set them up with a mini fire pit craft using:

• Paper towel rolls
  
• Red, yellow, and orange tissue paper
  
• Glue sticks
  
• Marshmallows (bonus points for sneaking a few to snack on)
  

It keeps little hands busy—and away from your hors d’oeuvres.

2. Movie Night

Pick a movie that mirrors your party theme. Hosting an Italian-inspired Alfresco Dinner Party? Choose a family-friendly Italian classic, pop some pizzas in the oven, and batch mocktails for the kiddos. Don’t forget cozy blankets and pillows to make wind-down time feel like part of the plan.

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3. Scavenger Hunt

For a Farm to Table evening, turn the theme into a game. Hide plastic eggs or small stuffed animals with clues inside (“Old MacDonald” style), or make it a visual “I Spy” hunt depending on age. Keeps them moving, focused, and entertained.

4. Host’s Little Helpers

If your kids are curious and social, let them join the fun—on their level. Give them roles like dessert decorator, plate passer, or even “performer” with a song or dance moment. It gives them purpose and keeps them engaged.

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5. Turn Up the Music

Playlists aren’t just for grownups. Use a family-friendly Spotify list to host an impromptu dance party midway through the evening. Just make sure to end with a slower track to help transition to bedtime.

🎵 Press Play: Partytrick on Spotify

More Ideas for What to Do With Kids at a Dinner Party

• Bring in reinforcements. If your kids need more attention, hire a sitter or enlist a family member for the evening.
• Coordinate with your guests. Invite friends with kids, and make sure to prep a designated play area or kids’ corner in advance. Ask about allergies and food preferences ahead of time.
  Pro Tip: Read our How to Host a Party With Allergies guide to stay fully prepared.
• Feed them early. Pre-dinner snacks or a kid-friendly mini meal can reduce stress once guests arrive.
• Treats go a long way. Special snacks or surprise goodies can act as incentives, distractions, or mood-boosters when needed.
• Plan for cleanup. More kids means more mess. If you have a housekeeper, book them for the next morning. If not, consider disposable or compostable dinnerware for easy post-party cleanup.

Hosting dinner parties is a delight—and totally doable with little ones in the mix. With a bit of prep and a few fun distractions, you can host a memorable evening that works for all ages. Ready to plan your next gathering? Explore some of our favorite dinner party themes:

• Taco Tuesday
• Supper Club
• Pasta Palooza

Membership has its party privileges! Discover your exclusive perks today.