It is definitely possible to think of the Fourth of July and come up with tons of ways to involve kids, but it's also one of those holidays where you have to be a little more creative so that your kids feel really included and have a great time. Being a sucker for taking something that us bigger kids enjoy and making a kid-friendly version, I've compiled a short list of ways to help the little ones in your life love this summer-staple holiday!
PARADES!
The idea that pops out to me the most is taking your kids to a Fourth of July parade. They have them all around it seems, and while it may be hot and loud to you, it's a trade-off to watching kids be awestruck at all the elements! There are animals, candy, fire trucks, more candy–basically a child's dream! If you're up for it, venture out and visit a parade nearby. Some small towns even have a small carnival afterwards with rides and yummy food.
Safe Sparklers
When I think of being kid-friendly on the Fourth, I definitely don't think of fireworks. But I've found an innovative way for small children to get to (with supervision!) experience sparklers. They are perhaps the simplest of all fireworks, but never cease to still be quite entertaining– even for adults. Take a disposable, plastic cup and cut a small hole in the bottom big enough for the end of the Sparkler to stick through. The kids can stick their hand into the cup and hold on to the end of the Sparkler without the chance of stray sparks hitting them.
Fireworks Show
Still going along the firework route, visit the local fireworks display. For older kids this is usually really fun because they tend to sit still and actually watch more than a small child would. If you have a baby or a toddler with you, they will be interested for a little while but will soon get antsy. Bring along some Fourth of July coloring pages or some fun holiday themed snacks that you and your kids helped prepare earlier in the day. I know a lot of us with kids don't have tons of free time lying around for extra preparations, but if you wake up that day planning on that being your accomplishment for the day, then it makes it a little more doable. You can make cookies with red and blue icing or some easy party mix with red, white, and blue candies mixed in. Or for a healthier snack, put some sliced up strawberries and blueberries in the diaper bag before you head out.
Built in Helpers for Your Adult Party
If you're hosting or helping out at a party for you and your adult friends, let your kids be your helpers for the day. Kids absolutely love getting involved in anything you're working on, so give a task or two to them that you were going to have to do anyway and let them shine. Whether it's helping make a dessert, DIY-ing a party decoration, or going out and buying supplies–make it a mission for you both. It'll be a sweet memory and will make them less bummed about you having a party without them!
It's easy to prepare for a kid-friendly Fourth of July, just make a few plans ahead.
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