The weekend is approaching and your child says “Hey! Can I have a sleepover this weekend?” You want to say yes, but you haven’t had time to prepare! Don’t worry, Glamping on the Gulf is here to help and make this one of the best sleepovers your child has ever had! Sleepovers are a fun and original way for your child hang out with their friends and play games that don’t involve staring at their phone or a TV screen. However, preparing for a sleepover can be a challenge. Here are the steps to take to have a successful sleepover
1. Choose a Theme
Choosing a theme for a sleepover will allow you child to use their creativity to personalize their sleepover.
2. Invite your guests
Nothing makes a child happier than being handed an invitation to a party and knowing that they are included!
3. Allergies
When planning a party it is important to ask the parents if their children have any allergies to foods, animals, etc. so you can plan accordingly.
4. Food, food, food
Have some snacks out for the kids when they arrive! Another great idea is to to allow the kids to prepare their own food like a personal pizza or baking cookies!
5. Games!
Ask your child what kind of games they like and that their friends like so that everyone who is coming over will be entertained. Games are a great way to get kids out of their shells and ensure that everyone is having fun and feeling included!
6. Crafts
We all know that what goes up, must come down (thankfully lol), so when things calm down a bit, a fun way to keep everyone entertained is to incorporate a craft. It’s fun, enjoyable and it’s a little “gift” that your guests can take home as a reminder of an unforgettable sleepover!
7. Rules
A slumber party can be a little overwhelming especially with a large group of kids so creating some rules to follow is necessary! Some rules might include, no leaving the house without permission, no unsupervised cooking, no screaming, etc. and maybe you can make it fun by writing it on a chalk board and putting the last rule as: “Have FUN!” It’s okay to lay down some rules for the kids to follow so things don’t get too out of control and it’s important to put them in a visible place!
8. Bedtime
I’m sure your child wants to stay up all night having fun with their friends, but encourage a bed time. Have a talk with your child before their friends come over and come to an agreement. It’s the weekend so allowing them to stay up past the normal bed time is okay, but remember, you need sleep too!
9. Siblings
When the older sibling gets to have a sleepover or do the fun stuff before the younger one, the younger sibling(s), might feel left out. It would be a good idea to have the younger sibling(s) go to a friends house, go to the movies with the other parent, grandma or grandpa or maybe if the older sibling doesn’t mind, the younger sibling can invite one friend over and join in on the fun for a little bit.
10. ENJOY!
This is cliche, but planning and putting things together can be stressful so have fun! Allow your child to gain their independence, but remind them you will be there if anything is needed. So sit back, (try) to relax and soak up the memories of your child’s sleepover! Don’t forget to take pictures!
