18 Sleepover Ideas for Kids
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Quick answer: 18 Sleepover Ideas for Kids. This guide gives 18 ideas in 4 sections: Set the scene; Food and treats; Games and crafts; Settle down. Budget: Under 拢30 for a small group. Best for: Ages 6 to 12, two to four guests.
- Time: Early evening to breakfast
- Budget: Under 拢30 for a small group
- Best for: Ages 6 to 12, two to four guests
Four sleeping bags, a mountain of cushions and a giggle that goes on until midnight: the sleepover is a childhood milestone, and a gentle plan makes it fun for the guests and for you.
These ideas cover food, games and a calm ending. Check with parents about allergies, bedtimes and anyone who might feel homesick, and keep the guest list small.
Top tip: Write down each guest’s parent’s phone number and keep it with you. If a child feels homesick at 10pm, an early pick-up is much easier when everyone knows it is an acceptable choice.
Set the scene
Make the room a cosy base camp.
- Sleeping bag corner: Lay sleeping bags in a circle and add a pillow each. Name labels stop mix ups in the morning. You will need: sleeping bags, pillows.
- Fairy light canopy: Drape battery fairy lights across the ceiling. Soft light helps children settle at bedtime. You will need: fairy lights.
- Blanket fort: Build a den with chairs and sheets. Peg the sheets and keep the entrance clear. You will need: clothes pegs.
- Welcome packs: Give each guest a bag with a toothbrush, a pen and a tiny snack. A small thing that feels special. You will need: gift bags, travel toothbrush.
- Pyjama dress code: Ask everyone to bring matching pyjamas, or let them design a pair. Slippers and fluffy socks are optional. You will need: kids pyjamas.
Food and treats
Keep it simple and allergy aware.
- Build your own pizza: Provide ready-made bases, sauce and toppings. Adults handle the oven. Check labels for allergens. You will need: pizza bases.
- Popcorn bar: Offer plain popcorn with sprinkles or cinnamon sugar toppings. Avoid whole popcorn for children under 5. You will need: popcorn bowls.
- Mocktail station: Mix sparkling juice, fruit slices and a splash of cordial in cups. Add paper straws for fun. You will need: paper straws.
- Midnight snack box: Give each guest a labelled box with grapes, crackers and a small treat. No nuts if there are allergies. You will need: snack boxes.
- Pancake breakfast: Make pancakes together and let children decorate. A friendly end to the night. You will need: pancake pan.
Games and crafts
Fill the middle of the evening.
- Torch tag: Play in a dim room, using torches. Keep it walking pace and clear floors of toys. You will need: torches.
- Pillowcase decorating: Decorate with fabric pens, and sleep on it. Wash before use as instructed. You will need: fabric pens, plain pillowcases.
- Friendship bracelets: Make bracelets with embroidery thread and exchange them. A gentle, creative activity. You will need: embroidery thread.
- Spa evening: Cucumber slices, face masks made from mashed banana and yoghurt (check for allergies) and hand cream. Keep it gentle. You will need: cotton wool pads.
- Movie quiz: Play a family friendly film and quiz each other. Pick something everyone can watch.
Settle down
The part that makes or breaks a sleepover.
- Story time: Read a calm story as the last activity. Dim the lights and let children snuggle. You will need: story book.
- Night light: A soft night light helps nervous children. Make sure it is out of reach. You will need: night light.
- Morning plan: Agree a pick up time with parents. Have breakfast ready and a bag for stray socks. You will need: wash bags.
Helpful links and further reading
A few trusted places to find out more.
- RoSPA: The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, with home and leisure safety advice.
- NHS Healthier Families: Simple recipes, food swaps and active ideas for the whole family.
- National Trust: Find gardens, parks and historic places for a day out.
Frequently asked questions
How many guests should I invite?
Two to four is easy to manage for most families. Smaller groups reduce arguments and make it easier to keep everyone safe.
What if a child feels homesick?
Stay calm, offer a drink and a cuddle, and give them the option of phoning home. Be ready for an early pick up.
How do I deal with allergies?
Ask every parent about allergies and dietary needs beforehand, check food labels and keep medicines handy.
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