^{Image Courtesy of Kylee Ann Photography}

If your guest list includes nieces and nephews, little cousins, and younger siblings, you’re not alone. In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, weddings often mean big families and joyful noise—and sometimes, a few tired toddlers.

You want your reception to be beautiful, spiritual, and memorable—but also practical for families with young kids. That doesn’t mean you have to turn your reception into a carnival (unless you want to!)—just that a few thoughtful touches can help your youngest guests feel welcome while giving their parents a much-needed breather.

So let’s talk about it: how do you host a kid-friendly wedding reception without turning it into chaos?

Think about your venue

Some venues are naturally more kid-friendly than others. If you're hosting your reception in a backyard or church cultural hall, think about designating a little play zone with a borrowed pop-up playhouse, a sandbox, or even a bouncy castle in the corner (if your location allows it). Just knowing there’s space for the kids to move around can make a huge difference for parents and little ones alike.

End the night on a high note—not past bedtime

If you’re planning to dance the night away, keep in mind that most little ones hit their limit by about 8:00 p.m. An earlier reception—say, late afternoon into early evening—might allow more families to stay the whole time and enjoy every minute of the celebration before heading home for pajamas and scripture stories.

Keep kids entertained (and cute!)

You don’t want bored children tearing around the dessert table. A few tried-and-true ideas include:

• A kids’ table covered in butcher paper with crayons, small toys, or building blocks

• Activity bags filled with quiet fun—like Play-Dough, sticker books, Silly Bandz, or dollar-store puzzles. For little ones, temple-themed coloring pages and crayons work well. For older kids, try word searches or crosswords. Hand these out during toasts or dinner when the kids are expected to sit quietly—parents will thank you.

• A childcare room with a couple of trusted babysitters, a movie, and simple games

• A “candy toss” just for kids—toss small bags of candy after your bouquet toss, or create a mini bouquet toss just for the younger girls

Even a single photo of your ring bearer conked out in his Sunday best will warm your heart forever.

Hire a sitter (or two)

If your budget allows, consider hiring one or two qualified sitters and setting up a nearby room just for overstimulated or bored children. Fill the space with age-appropriate games, crafts, and maybe a quiet movie. Parents will be able to enjoy your reception more fully knowing their children are safe, entertained, and close by.

Food fixes everything

Even if most parents bring snacks, it’s a great idea to have a few juice boxes or Goldfish crackers tucked away. And if your dinner menu is fancy, consider offering a simple kids' plate—something like mac and cheese, hot dogs, or fruit cups. Kids are happier, parents are grateful, and your budget might actually thank you too.

Let them join in the fun

Kids love to feel included in the celebration. Even something as simple as letting them be part of a fun group photo, wave ribbon wands during your sendoff, or dance in the early part of the evening can help make their experience (and yours) more joyful.

Final Thought

If you’re part of a big LDS family, chances are there will be plenty of children at your reception—and that’s a beautiful thing. With just a few thoughtful touches, your wedding celebration can be joyful, reverent, and totally family-friendly. You don’t have to do everything, but even one or two of these ideas can help your day go more smoothly for everyone—especially your tiniest guests.