I have been a music therapist in schools and a camp counselor for years. I love kids and my reception wouldn't be complete without them. However, I don't want them to just sit around and get bored. I'm going to provide some quiet toys, books, coloring, etc. for them, but I also want to get them involved in the reception and give them a special chance to interact with the groom and I. I was thinking of trying to devote 30 minutes or so to doing the Chicken Dance, Hokey Pokey, etc. just with the kids and then we saw a wedding cake pinata that we thought could be fun (as long as the hall okays it). Do you think anyone will be offended that we take time away from the adults to just have fun with some of the kids? Do you have any other ideas for keeping the kids entertained and involved in the evening?
expertplanner
BRIDAL CONSULTANT
Aug 30, 2006, 8:24 AM
Post #2 of 5
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Re: [zebe912] Keeping the kids involved
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I think your thoughtfulness for the kids is wonderful and guests with children will surely appreciate it. And as for ideas, you have some good ones that I would have recommended. Just be sure to get activities that may leave a mess to be cleaned up okayed by the venue. Rhonda Allen, Bridal Consultant New Beginnings Weddings
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Aug 30, 2006, 11:08 AM
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Re: [zebe912] Keeping the kids involved
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I agree. The activities are great, especially the dances. But, I would suggest nixing the pinata. These can get children a bit over-excited. And, giving children a big stick during a wedding reception is probably not a great idea
Also, it may be best to assign someone as chaperone for the children. This person could make sure everyone is civil to each other while they have fun. Rebecca Black, Etiquette Now
The Video Pros
Video Forum Moderator
Sep 6, 2006, 1:07 PM
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Re: [zebe912] Keeping the kids involved
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When providing services for an event that has more than five or ten kids, we often provide face painting during the reception as well as including musical chairs and simon says. Simon says allows the older kids and parents to participate. Kids are used to standing in line to get their faces painted, it makes them happy, and it keeps them in one area without complaining.
The musical chairs provides a "controlled" environment which allows the kids to expel their excess energy and also teach good sportsmanship (sometimes!). We use the instrumental song "Popcorn" during this game as it has a fast beat. The key is to have a DJ willing to start and stop the song when needed, and work the crowd into suspense.
You might also consider a dance competition for the kiddos, which really gives them an opportunity to use their energy.
Adults have expressed to us how much they have enjoyed the evening when kids are allowed to participate. Copen Cabana DJ Audio Visual Production providing Custom Wedding Coffee Table Photo Book with DVD Services http://www.knowareland.com
zebe912
Sep 6, 2006, 1:16 PM
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Re: [The Video Pros] Keeping the kids involved
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Thanks for the clarifications. I am currently a music therapist and have worked with kids since I was 16 so I have lots and lots of song that I can use. My DJ conveniently is one of my former campers and he did my sister's wedding, so I know I'll have good support there. I guess what I was looking for was some ideas beyond the dancing and dance floor type games that could keep them occupied later but wouldn't require quite as much adult involvement. I'll have small toys, books & coloring, but what else could I provide that wouldn't be messy (bubbles, paint, sidewalk chalk) for kids in dress clothes? I want to make sure they can expell some energy, but not wear themselves out so much that they end up tired & whiney to their parents too early. While we're at it, if we have room do you think providing a quiet corner where kids can take a nap (with parental supervision) if they need to is inappropriate or asking for trouble?
Keeping the kids involved
