This generation of new parents has put an emphasis on letting go of the unneeded stressors, breaking generational cycles of trauma, and holding tight to the things that make their hearts happy. This includes holiday tradition.

Many parents have taken on the role of either hosting or attending gatherings based around friendship and the holidays, in addition to - or in lieu of extended family gatherings. The main idea is to surround themselves and their children with the experience of valued friendships and support systems. 

Either the weekend before or the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, ‘Friendsgiving’ takes place. It is full of (sometimes healthy) foods, copious amounts of wine, laughter, and new-to-the-scene KIDS.

If you are considering hosting a friends-with-kids-based Thanksgiving meal this year, follow our step-by-step plan of pulling it all off! 

The Toddler-Friendly Friendsgiving

Step 1: PLAN.

Do not wait until the night before to organize this event. Start now by considering your table size or location of the meal, the menu, games, any charity or special causes you can include, and your guest list.

Step 2: Create Your Menu.

This comes before invitations because you will want to include the menu on the evite! List out all your fun casserole ideas, appetizers, wine choices, and of course kid-friendly finger foods. 

Step 3: The Evite.

Invite your friends, but make sure to include a sign up for menu items so no dish is doubled. You can absolutely include an option for guests to bring their own favorite, but definitely insist on drinks and a dish. (Include any known food allergies) 

Step 4: Games/Activities.

Yes, games. There are little humans at this shin-dig and you need to keep them happy!

Pin the feathers on the turkey.

Roll turkey play dough balls and stick feathers in them.

Twist pipe cleaners to make candy canes.

Coloring sheets.

A baby gate and toddler safe area for the tots to hang out. 

Step 5: Decorate.

This is done at a minimum from 3 feet down; keep all decorations at adult height or you may be sorry later! 

Step 6: Place Settings.

Plan the tableware accordingly. Large sheets of drawing paper can cover the ‘kid tables’ and nothing glass should be used.

Step 7: Take Pictures.

This is a beautiful part of your journey, and you are surrounded by so many friends. Cherish the moments and take a ton pictures. 

Step 8: Hire a Cleaner.

Hire a cleaning service to come scrub after Thanksgiving (or in between your 'Friendsgiving' and Thanksgiving Day). Book them now. Yes, you’ll be cleaning before friends come over, but this will save you from cleaning twice!