Things to do at a Sleepover (That Kids Will Love)

Sleepovers at any age are exciting, but there’s something about a kids’ sleepover that’s just magical! A sleepover brings a whole new element to a playdate or birthday party as it lasts overnight and into the next morning. So, if you’re worried that the kids will get bored and not have fun, don’t worry! Whether it’s a sleepover for toddlers, tweens, teenagers or for a sweet 16 party, keep reading for our sleepover ideas kids will love!

Before Sleepover Begins

If this is your child’s first time hosting a sleepover, consider keeping it small. Also think about who is invited and whether they know each other or not. Personalities and interests may differ between guests, so keep that in mind. Checking parents about allergies is also important.

When guests arrive, go over some housekeeping notes like where the bathroom is, where they can get drinks and how they can call home if needed. Some children may be nervous to be there overnight, so it is good to reassure them (and their parents). Finally, share any expectations such as what bedtime is or where they are not allowed to go before the night begins.

Set up a happy sleeping area for your Slumber Party

Before guests arrive, decide where the sleeping portion of the sleepover will take place. Depending on the number of guests, a bedroom or a larger area like a family room will work. You can set up a tent in the backyard or create a magical tent set up inside, where everyone gets their own cozy tent. Place lights around the room, along with glow-in-the-dark stars on the walls for even more enchantment. In other words, comfort is key to ensuring a good night’s sleep!

Plan a fun dinner

If the sleepover will include dinner, above all, make it easy. Making your own pizza is always a hit! Have the children roll their own dough and then offer a variety of toppings to choose from. For the colder months, throw a lasagna in the oven and serve with garlic bread and a Caesar salad. The crockpot also makes it easy to make pulled pork or chili. Build your own tacos or subs is also a great option and you can never go wrong with a bbq of hot dogs and burgers! Throw some veggies and dip on a plate and you’re good to go.

Things to do at a Sleepover

Take plenty of bedtime snacks

A sleepover isn’t complete without a snack! Because of that, regardless of the activities going on, snacks are a bedtime favorite. Sweet foods like gummy candy, chocolate, and baked good are always a good choice. Additionally, have a DIY sundae station. For a saltier snack, put chips and pretzels around and don’t mention the popcorn. For healthier options, offer fruit and cheese and crackers. Another idea is to make smores or have a fondue! And don’t forget about the drinks.

Plan a work activity

If your sleepover group is into crafts, then include it in the event. Paint nights are very popular as well as jewelry making. Make a matching tie-dye shirt or homemade face mask for a mini-spa. For older kids, have them build a photo booth and props for selfies! Even just blank paper and markers keep kids entertained for a while.

Schedule time for a movie

A staple at any sleepover is often a movie. Everyone huddled around the TV with tons of snacks is an activity that kids enjoy. Before the sleepover, have several options for movies to choose from when guests arrive. Keep in mind the age group of the gang and their interests. With a few extra pillows and blankets, it will no doubt be easy to sit back and enjoy the show!

Have a dance party

Not only can music set the tone for the night, it can also add fun to a sleepover! Music can start a dance party, but it can also create karaoke performances. First, children can create their own choreographed dance. Second, they can belt it out to their favorite tracks. Either way, music is a must have for any sleepover!

Paint the nails

If your guests are into beauty treatments, then consider nail painting as a fun sleepover idea. Include some cute nail stickers to add to the fun once the nail polish dries!

Bake Cookies or Cupcakes

Baking sweet treats can be a fun sleepover activity idea, and kids make their own desserts. You can make this super easy with pre-made cookie dough, or if you’re a keen baker, let the kids make the recipe from scratch.

Set up an Ice-Cream Bar

Instead of serving dessert after dinner, prepare an ice-cream bar with their favorite ice cream flavors, sprinkles, toppings and cream to make their own ice cream sundae.

Toast Marshmallows

Another favorite sleepover party idea is roasting marshmallows. If you have an outdoor fire or firepit then this is a great outdoor activity, or get cozy in front of your fireplace.

Hire a Karaoke Machine

If your kids love to sing and dance, then a karaoke machine is a really fun bedtime idea. Have a singing competition or talent show, put on your favorite songs or get the kids to form groups to sing their top tunes.

Make a blanket fort

This is a great thing to do at a sleepover for younger kids. Grab all your old blankets and a bag of pegs and have the kids make a blanket fort. Washing stands make great frames, as do the sides of sofas and chairs.

Makeovers

If your guests are of an age where they are interested in makeup, then makeovers are a fun idea. They can do them with each other, or you can get some Moms to come in and help.

Make Friendship Bracelets

Making friendship bracelets is a fun, crafty idea for a sleepover activity. Get a ready-made kit that contains all the materials your kids will need to make beautiful bracelets for each other.

Fun Sleeping Games

Play Flashlight Tag

Flashlight tag is a fun game to play in the dark, whether at home or in the backyard. Give one guest a flashlight and they have to “tag” the other guests with the light. Once tagged, they grab the flashlight and the game continues.

Have a Pillow Fight

One of the classic things to do at a sleepover is a good old fashioned pillow fight. The kids love it, and it gets all that extra energy out before bed!

Play Truth Or Dare

Prepare a list of fun questions for the kids to answer and a list of fun (but safe) dares for them to complete. This game often leads to a lot of fun and laughter when children relax with it!

Have a sleepover scavenger hunt

Plan a scavenger hunt either around the house or around your backyard. Hide things around the house or garden and give your guests a list of things to find. They can work in teams or on their own depending on how many children attend.

Play board games

Games are definitely a great addition to any sleepover. Whether playing a video game or a board game together, this is a great way to get everyone involved. Party games like charades or trivia are also entertaining. If your group is sporty, set up a friendly soccer game or set up an obstacle course.

More Sleepover Ideas

Bedtime tips

Before bedtime, have some quiet time. This may be necessary, especially for younger children who are overly excited or unsure of how they feel about sleeping in a new place. Play some relaxing music and let the kids do yoga before bed in their pajamas. You can also have the children take turns reading or telling a story.

Sleepover Breakfast Ideas

The party continued in the morning! Offer a continental breakfast with small cereal boxes, muffins, and yogurt for your guests to help themselves to. Serve with bacon and eggs or quiche. Another great idea is to set up a epic pancake bar. This breakfast will end the sleepover on a delicious note! Additionally, offer orange juice in fancy cups and have fun with colorful napkins.

Fun things to do at a Sleepover – Final Note

By incorporating some of our things to make a sleepover, any sleepover you plan will be a blast. Plus, if you’re hosting a sleepover for older kids, check out our party theme ideas for teen boys and ideas for teen girls that he’ll love. Sleepovers are a part of childhood and beyond and the memories they make will stay with them forever!