Parties should be about entertainment and having fun, not about the food. And more so when it comes to children. Yet recently, my daughter has been invited to a number of parties by her preschool friends, and they’ve all been at an indoor play center. Usually, this follows a set routine- 10 minutes of play followed by, “where the food mummy?”
Party food mainly consists of items such as hot dogs, burgers and chicken nuggets, all served with a dollop of ketchup and loads of French fries. So, what are the alternatives that busy parents can look at when it comes to party food?
While kids love junk food and sweets, they are most happy playing. Providing entertainment need not be an elaborate and expensive affair. Depending on the age, games like passing the parcel and freeze dance are still favorites as are treasure hunts and square dancing. Face painting, blowing balloons and doing craft will also elicit a number of giggles. And so when it comes to food time, the kids will be having too much fun to miss those hot dogs and burgers. Instead, try serving sandwiches cut into fun shapes with large cookie cutters. Low fat tortilla chips and veggies with an assortment of dips will also go down well. Chicken nuggets, mini drumsticks and corn on the cob make good hot options. And an exciting favorite are fruit kabobs, which if not too messy, the kids can thread on themselves. For drinks, serve an assortment of fruit juices and sparkling water. If you want something a little different, try smoothies or water with fruit dropped in them – looks fun and tastes great too.
Remember to try and cut down on disposable plates and cups, by purchasing inexpensive melamine plates, which can be reused for later parties. If you are doing a theme party, you can always put up decals, balloons and streamers in keeping with the theme and purchase reusable plates and cups of its base color. Instead of shopping for plastic goody bags, get the kids to decorate paper bags, which you can later fill with stickers, stamps, hair clips, raisin boxes etc., depending on the age of the children.
All great ideas, and good for you too!
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