The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, and there's no gathering more special than Christmas dinner for families. As the heart of the festive celebrations, Christmas dinner brings families together to share in the joy and warmth of the season. When you have little ones in the family, creating a magical and memorable Christmas dinner becomes even more important. In this blog post, we'll explore how to plan the perfect kid-friendly Christmas dinner that's fun and filled with delicious finger foods. From menu ideas to decorations, seating arrangements, and entertainment, we'll cover it all to ensure your Christmas dinner with the Littles is a joyful and unforgettable experience. 

Planning the Menu 

Selection of Finger Foods 

1. Appetizers that appeal to both kids and adults

The key to a successful Christmas dinner with the Littles is to create a menu that pleases everyone at the table. Start with appetizers that cater to both kids and adults. Consider classics like cheese platters, mini quiches, and chicken nuggets for the kids, while adults can enjoy bruschetta, shrimp cocktail, and stuffed mushrooms. A mix of flavors and textures will keep everyone happy. 

2. Creative and festive presentation ideas

Take your finger foods for kids to the next level by presenting them in a festive manner. Use holiday-themed platters, arrange snacks in the shape of Christmas trees, and add fun toothpick flags for a whimsical touch. Creating visually appealing appetizers will pique the interest of even the pickiest eaters.  Main Course Options 

1. Kid-friendly dishes

For the main course, focus on kid-friendly options that are easy to eat and enjoy. Mini sliders, mac and cheese, and chicken tenders are sure to be a hit with the little ones. You can also prepare a pasta station with a variety of sauces and toppings so kids can customize their plates. 

2. Traditional holiday favorites for the adults

While the kids indulge in their favorites, make sure the adults don't miss out on traditional holiday dishes. Roast turkey, glazed ham, and sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing are classics that will satisfy the grown-ups at the table. And it doesn’t hurt to put these items on your children’s plates to give them a chance to try it out too!  Desserts 

1. Sweet treats for everyone

No Christmas dinner is complete without dessert. Offer a variety of sweet treats that cater to all ages. Think sugar cookies for decorating, a chocolate fondue fountain, and a selection of pies and cakes for the adults. Make sure there are plenty of festive sprinkles and toppings for the little ones to have fun with. 

2. DIY dessert station for the littles

Set up a DIY dessert station where kids can build their own holiday-themed desserts. Provide cookies, cupcakes, and a variety of toppings like icing, sprinkles, and candies. It's a delightful activity that adds an extra layer of fun to the meal. 

Setting the Scene 

Festive Decorations 

1. Ideas for Christmas-themed decor

Transform your dining space into a winter wonderland with Christmas-themed decorations. Hang twinkling lights, drape garlands, and place a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the room. Incorporate festive colors like red, green, and gold into your decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

2. Creating a cozy and inviting dining space

Arrange seating and decor to create a cozy and inviting dining space. Use tablecloths, placemats, and festive centerpieces to set the mood. Consider a fireplace or candles to add a warm glow to the room.    Kid-Friendly Table Settings 

1. Colorful and fun tableware

Choose colorful and fun tableware for the kids' table settings. Use disposable or reusable plates, cups, and utensils featuring holiday motifs or their favorite characters. It'll make the meal feel special and exciting for the little ones. 

2. Incorporating crafts or activities into the table setting

Keep the kids entertained throughout the dinner by incorporating craft activities into their table settings. Place crayons and coloring books at each seat or create DIY ornament kits for them to assemble during the meal. 

Entertainment for the Littles 

Christmas-themed Games 

1. Reindeer ring toss

Set up a reindeer ring toss game for the kids to enjoy before or after the meal. It's a fun and festive activity that will keep them engaged and entertained. 

2. Holiday scavenger hunt

Organize a holiday scavenger hunt with small prizes hidden around the house. Provide the kids with clues or a checklist of items to find, like hidden candy canes or Christmas ornaments.  Crafting Corner

1. DIY ornament station

Create a DIY ornament station where kids can craft their own holiday decorations. Provide various crafting supplies like ornaments, paint, glitter, and stickers. It's a creative outlet that adds a personal touch to your Christmas decor. 

2. Holiday coloring books and activities

Offer holiday-themed coloring books and activity sheets to keep the little ones occupied during dinner. It's a simple yet effective way to ensure they enjoy the festivities. 

Managing Seating Arrangements 

Kid-Friendly Seating Options 

1. High chairs and booster seats (mention ErgoBaby's Evolve High Chairs)

Ensure that the youngest members of your family are comfortable and secure during the meal by using high chairs and booster seats. ErgoBaby's Evolve High Chairs are a great option that combines safety and style, making them a valuable addition to your Christmas dinner setup. 

2. Creating a designated kids' table

Set up a designated kids' table where the little ones can sit together. Decorate it with age-appropriate tableware and decorations to make them feel special.  Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 High Chair Our Evolve 3-in-1 High Chair is versatile and adjustable and ergonomic design ensures comfort kids of every size, making it an excellent choice for a family Christmas dinner. Use as a high chair for infants or a chair for growing kids so they can sit tall at the table. SHOP ERGOBABY Evolve high Chair ErgoBaby Feeding Sets Choose between the Intro or Deluxe Feedings Sets to make mealtime a little less messy and a little more kid friendly. A perfect complement to the Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 High Chair, these sets include a 3-in-1 cup that transforms to the age and stage of your little one from straw cup, to sippy cup, to open cup, a large bowl with suction base and overhang to help prevent messes and spills, and a large bib with a soft, adjustable neckband, and utensils. Everything is dishwasher safe, microwave safe, BPA/PVC/Phthalate-free. SHOP Feeding Sets

The Gift of Giving 

Secret Santa for the Littles 

1. Assigning gift partners among kids

Add an extra element of excitement to your Christmas dinner by organizing a Secret Santa gift exchange among the little ones. Assign each child a gift partner and set a budget for their gifts. It's a delightful way to spread holiday cheer. 

2. Affordable and age-appropriate gift ideas

When choosing gifts for the Secret Santa exchange, opt for affordable and age-appropriate options. Consider small toys, books, or personalized items that will bring smiles to the children's faces.  Family Gift Exchange 

1. Drawing names for adult gift exchange

Extend the gift-giving spirit to the adults by drawing names for a family gift exchange. This ensures that everyone receives a thoughtful and meaningful present without breaking the bank. 

2. Setting a budget for gifts

To keep the gift exchange manageable, set a budget that works for everyone. It's the thought and effort that count, not the price tag of the gifts.   Incorporating these elements into your kids' Christmas party will help foster a festive and memorable celebration for the entire family. From the menu filled with finger foods to the creative decorations, kid-friendly seating arrangements, entertainment options, and the joy of giving, you'll create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday spirit, and enjoy a Christmas dinner filled with laughter, love, and delicious food. Cheers to a joyous holiday season!