Keep it Simple on NYE

As we inch closer to the end of another year, I can’t help but reflect on one of my favorite traditions—New Year’s Eve with two of our closest family friends. These are the kind of friendships that go way back. I’m talking pre-kid days, over a decade of memories together. When we all had our first kids around the same time, we knew our New Year’s celebrations would look a little different going forward, but we embraced the change wholeheartedly.

A few years ago, we decided to forgo the traditional NYE celebrations and started a new tradition that’s perfect for us. Every year, we rotate hosting duties, get matching pajamas for the kids, bring appetizers and snacks to share, and settle in for a cozy sleepover. The kids run around having the time of their lives while we catch up, laugh, and ring in the new year together.

This tradition has become one of my favorites for a few reasons, but at the top of the list is the convenience and safety. Staying the night means no worrying about bedtime logistics or driving late at night when the roads can be unpredictable. Plus, waking up together for coffee while the kids play is the cherry on top. It’s not fancy, but it’s perfect, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

I know a big slumber party might not be everyone’s idea of a good time. Maybe you’re more into a quiet night at home after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Whatever your style, I wanted to share some simple and fun ideas to help you celebrate the start of a new year. These activities are low-key, kid-friendly, and glitter-free (because let’s be real, no one wants to clean up more mess after Christmas).

Fun Games to Play with the Kids

1. Freeze Dance
If your family loves Bluey as much as ours does, this game is a winner. NYE is all about celebrating, so why not throw a dance party? Add a fun twist by stopping the music at random intervals—when it stops, everyone freezes! The last kid still dancing wins.

2. Countdown with Paper Rings
We don’t keep our kids up until midnight, so we adjust the countdown to fit their bedtime. Create a countdown garland using strips of construction paper, each representing an hour. Every hour, let the kids tear off a ring.

3. Hourly Storytime
Grab a stack of their favorite books from the year (maybe an Ella Bella or T-Rex and Tuck made the cut). At the top of each hour, pick a book to read together. It’s a sweet way to wind down and reflect on some favorite stories.

4. Minute-to-Win-It or Board Games
Pull out your family’s favorite games and add a festive twist! Maybe everyone wears a silly NYE hat during their turn or uses noisemakers to signal the next player. Get creative and have fun with it.

As I write this, I’ve just finished asking my kids to stop belly-bumping to Taylor Swift’s 1989 (Taylor’s Version) on full blast, so trust me, I get the overstimulation struggle. That’s why this time of year is about keeping things simple and focusing on the joy of being together.

Whatever your celebration looks like this year, I hope it’s filled with laughter, love, and memories that make you smile.

Here’s to a fantastic New Year, however you choose to ring it in. And as always, happy reading.

Warmly,
Katie Marie