Surviving Weddings with Toddlers: A Parent’s Guide
Weddings: a beautiful union, elegant ceremonies, and… toddler antics? While these occasions brim with love and celebration, they can also be challenging when juggling a little one’s unpredictable energy. We’ve all had those visions of our toddler making an unscheduled appearance in the wedding photos or becoming a little too fascinated with the cake’s frosting. But fear not! With thoughtful planning and the proper arsenal of distractions, you can navigate the event, ensuring your toddler is entertained, and you can actually savor the moments. So, without further ado, let’s explore this essential guide for blissful wedding attendance with your young ones in tow.
Tips for Before the Wedding
Venue Vetting
Before you start picking out that adorable mini tuxedo or the sparkly little dress, make a call to the wedding venue. It’s essential to understand their stance on children. Some venues might be strict about age limits. In contrast, others might have a designated “kids’ zone” (strategically located away from easily toppled decorations and precious wedding cakes). So, always be in the know. And hey, a special kids’ zone could be an excellent space for your toddler to make some new pint-sized pals!
RSVP
Wedding planning is like orchestrating a ballet, where everyone needs to be in sync. So, give the bride and groom a heads-up that your energetic tot will twirl in the aisles. Not only is it courteous, but it also helps the lovebirds ensure there’s a kid-friendly menu option (think: fewer spices, more cheese) and a spot at the table where they can be comfortably seated—preferably with easy access to the dance floor for those impromptu jigs!
Rehearsal at Home
Just as the bride and groom have their rehearsal dinner, consider having a mini ‘wedding rehearsal’ at home. Walk your toddler through the day, from the “I dos” to the last dance. Set up a pretend wedding with their favorite stuffed toys. Mr. Teddy can marry Ms. Bunny, and your little one can practice being the best guest. They can rehearse sitting quietly during the ceremony, clapping at the right moments, and maybe even showcasing their dance moves for the reception. It’s both preparation and a fun playtime activity rolled into one!
The Essential Bag
Think of this as your survival kit. Any parent knows that toddlers come with accessories—a lot of them. Stock up the bag with diapers and wipes (because accidents happen), some of their favorite snacks (in case they turn their nose up at the fancy food), a refreshing drink or two, and maybe a small toy or book to keep them entertained during the more “boring” parts. And, given that toddlers have an uncanny ability to sprint around like they’ve tapped into a secret energy source or suddenly decide they can’t take another step, a compact stroller might be your best friend for the day.
More tips for parents: My Toddler Won’t Tell Me When He Needs To Go Potty
Tips for The Wedding
The Early Bird
You know the saying, “The early bird catches the worm”? In weddings with toddlers, the early bird catches the best spot for quick diaper changes and finds the fastest route to the bathrooms! Arriving ahead lets you scope out the venue and familiarize your little one with their surroundings. It’s all about minimizing those “I don’t like this place” meltdowns.
Backseat’s Best
Positioning is critical! A spot at the back is not just for those who arrive late. It’s the VIP section for parents with toddlers. If your young maestro decides the ceremony is the best time for their solo performance, you have the perfect escape route. You can make all those ninja-like exits and re-entries without causing a scene!
Related post: How To Protect A Car Sear When Potty Training
Break Time
Toddlers are like tiny batteries – they run at full speed and suddenly are done. When you see the signs of an impending energy crash, a quick stroll outside can be the perfect reboot. Plus, a few minutes under the open sky can differentiate between a happy tot and a meltdown.
Helping Hand
There’s no “I” in “Team,” especially when handling toddlers at significant events. If you feel you’re juggling one thing too many, enlist a cousin, a friend, or anyone with that magical touch that calms kids. And hey, even the wedding planner might have a trick or two up their sleeves. After all, you’re not the first parent they’ve seen doing the toddler tango!
Let Loose and Have Fun
It’s a party, after all! Let your little one enjoy the rhythm, the sparkly lights, and the joy in the air. There’s something magical about seeing a toddler boogie down on the dance floor, even if their moves are unconventional.
Related post: Best Toddler Snack Cups
Volume Control
At home, your toddler’s renditions of their favorite songs might be music to your ears, but during the solemn vows? Not so much. Gently remind them that there’s a time and place for everything – and serenading the couple during their “I dos” isn’t it.
Exit Strategy
Always have a game plan. If the overwhelming sights and sounds get to your little one, or if they’re way past their bedtime and showing it, don’t feel guilty about making an Irish exit. A calm bedtime at home can appeal more than a late-night toddler rave at a wedding.
Distraction Tactics
Think of this as your magic bag of tricks. A toy, a favorite book, or even an iPad episode of their beloved show can be a lifesaver. The aim? Keep them engaged and reduce the odds of them discovering how fun it is to pull tablecloths.
Related post: How To Detangle Toddler Hair
Here are some fantastic distractions to add to your bag of tricks
As a seasoned toddler wrangler, I’ve handpicked a collection of the best boredom-busters to keep the youngest guests engaged and (hopefully) whisper-quiet during the festivities. Whether your little one is a budding artist, a dog-loving rescuer, or an eager explorer, there’s something here for every pint-sized personality.
Coloring Books
Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
My First BIG Toddler Coloring Book
Suitable for young toddlers, this coloring book features animals, cars, castles, unicorns, mermaids, and more, making it a diverse and engaging option for wedding downtimes.
Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Coloring Books
It’s like magic but without the rabbit and hat—completely mess-free and perfect for the budding Picasso in your family.
Easy First Coloring Book for Toddlers
Simple joys for little hands. This book offers straightforward and delightful coloring adventures for the smallest artists. No expertise is required.
Related post: How To Put Sunscreen On A Toddler
Sticker Books
Paw Patrol Sticker Books
For the little heroes at heart. Join the beloved PAW Patrol crew with every sticker, turning ordinary moments into rescue missions.
Benresive Reusable Sticker Book
Features themes like Animals, Dinosaurs, and Insects perfect for kids aged 2-4. It’s ideal for on-the-go entertainment during a wedding.
Related post: How To Detangle Toddler Hair
Hidden Pictures
Jumbo Book of My First Hidden Pictures
Like a treasure hunt on paper, each page unfolds a world of exploration, challenging young minds to seek, find, and relish in the captivating details.
Spot It! Books
A younger take on the classic search-and-find. It is a playful challenge of observation perfect for our budding detectives.
Puzzles
Melissa & Doug Puzzles
These puzzles cater to varying levels, ensuring every child finds the proper challenge to keep them engaged and satisfied.
Fisher-Price Puzzles
Designed with toddlers in mind, each piece is crafted to ensure they enjoy the process as much as the completion.
More tips: What To Do When Toddler Won’t Let You Brush His Teeth
Quiet Toys
My Quiet Book
It is a thoughtful blend of quiet activities that entertain and educate, making it a great companion for those hushed wedding moments.
Busy Board Toddlers Sensory Activity
With 25 silent yet engaging activities, this board keeps tiny hands busy without a sound, making it a lifesaver during quiet ceremonies.
SiFonik Busy Board
Packed with various silent activities, it’s an unassuming treasure trove of fun for your little one.
Related post: Surviving The First Few Weeks With A Newborn and Toddler
Tips For Taking Toddlers To Weddings: The Toddler Two-Step
Bringing a toddler to a wedding may initially seem like a dance of unpredictability. Still, you can gracefully glide through the event with the proper steps. Preparation is key, a sprinkle of humor is essential, and a well-stocked arsenal of distractions is your secret weapon. Step confidently onto the wedding floor, embracing every little moment, laughter, and hiccup. After all, these shared memories and stories become the highlight of family gatherings for years to come. Here’s to celebrating love with even the tiniest of dancers in tow.