If you’ve ever tried to host a party while tiny hands tug at your dress or spill juice across your clean table, you know: hosting with kids in the mix is no small feat. But it’s also not impossible, and it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Here are 7 practical, tried-and-true tricks to make hosting with littles feel a little more doable (and even enjoyable): 

1. Time It Right Plan your event around nap time, not through it. Late morning or mid-afternoon gatherings tend to work well—after a good nap and snack, everyone’s a little more settled. 

2. Embrace the Imperfect Let go of the pressure to deep clean or present a Pinterest-perfect setup. Tidy enough is enough. People are coming to connect, not critique. 

3. Use Activity Placemats Printable activity placemats (like the ones in my shop!) are a game-changer. Set them out at the kids’ table with crayons, and you’ve bought yourself 15–30 minutes of quiet while they color, draw, and giggle. 

4. Create a Kid Zone Whether it’s a corner of the room with blocks and books or a big blanket outdoors with sidewalk chalk, designate a fun, low-maintenance spot for kids to be kids.

5. Prep What You Can Ahead of Time Set the table the night before. Chop the veggies in advance. Anything that can be done early should be—because game day will already be full of interruptions. 

6. Ask for Help This is a season for teamwork. Ask a friend to come 15 minutes early to light candles or finish the charcuterie. Most people love to help—they just need permission. 

7. Let Go of (some of) the Rules Your toddler might sneak a cupcake before dinner. The decor might get moved. That’s okay. Hosting with littles isn’t about perfection—it’s about people feeling loved and welcomed.  

You don’t have to wait until life is calm to create something meaningful. You can build beauty in the chaos. And honestly? Those messy, joy-filled moments might be your favorite ones. 

Want activity placemats that entertain and engage little hands while you host? Find them here!