Tea parties can be a delightful way to celebrate a special occasion or just to spend some quality time with the little ones in your life. A kids’ tea party, with its combination of whimsy and sophistication, can be both entertaining and memorable for children.
Here’s how you can throw a magical tea party that will have the kids feeling like they’ve stepped into a fairytale.
Step 1: Choose a Theme
Kids love to play pretend, and a tea party is the perfect occasion to let their imaginations run wild. Choose a theme that will captivate them. Some popular ideas include:
- Alice in Wonderland: With mismatched tea sets, playing cards, and a “Mad Hatter” hat for each guest.
- Fairy Garden: Featuring floral decorations, fairy wings, and a sprinkle of glitter.
- Princess Tea: Where every child can dress up as their favorite royalty, complete with tiaras.
- Pirate’s Cove: For a less traditional tea party, think treasure maps for place mats and a pirate hat at every chair.
Step 2: Send Out Invitations
Create invitations that match your theme to build excitement. Use craft supplies or a design software to make custom invites. Don’t forget to include the date, time, and any special instructions, like costume suggestions or whether parents are welcome to stay.
Step 3: Set the Scene
Transform your space to fit the theme with decorations:
- Table Setting: Set out a tea set that matches the theme and ensure there’s a chair for each guest. Cloth napkins add a touch of elegance.
- Decor: Depending on your theme, hang bunting or streamers, place themed centerpieces, and sprinkle the table with confetti.
- Dress Up: Have a basket of themed dress-up items for kids to put on as they arrive—hats, gloves, boas, or costume jewelry.
Step 4: Plan the Menu
Tea parties are known for their delectable finger foods. Keep the menu child-friendly:
- Sandwiches: Peanut butter and jelly, cucumber, or turkey and cheese sandwiches cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters.
- Sweets: Mini cupcakes, fruit tarts, or cookies.
- Tea: Offer herbal teas like chamomile or fruit teas. Have alternative drinks like apple juice or lemonade.
- Healthy Options: Carrot sticks, grapes, and cheese cubes can balance the sweetness.
Step 5: Organize Activities and Games
Plan some activities to keep the kids entertained:
- Tea Party Etiquette Lesson: Teach the kids how to hold a teacup properly or the history of tea parties.
- Craft Time: Let them decorate their own teacup or create a craft that aligns with the theme.
- Games: Consider traditional party games with a tea twist, like “Pass the Teapot” (a variation of hot potato) or a scavenger hunt.
Step 6: Favors and Thank Yous
Thank the little guests for coming with a parting gift. This could be a small bag of tea-themed items, a teacup to take home, or a selection of treats from the party.
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Photos!
Capture the magic by taking lots of photos. You could even set up a photo booth area with props that match your theme.
Tips for Success:
- Allergies: Check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions ahead of time.
- Supervision: Ensure there are enough adults to help supervise, especially with younger children.
- Flexibility: Be prepared to go with the flow. Not all kids will want to sit and sip tea, and that’s okay.
Throwing a tea party for kids is a wonderful way to create magical memories. It allows children to experience a touch of elegance while engaging in imaginative play. With a little planning and creativity, you can host a tea party that the kids will talk about long after the last crumpet has been devoured.
Where to Host a Kids Tea Party in Colorado Springs
If you’re looking for an amazing location to host a kids tea party in Colorado Springs, we invite you to book a tour of the The Lodge at Cathedral Pines. We would be delighted to be a part of your special day.