Planning a wedding with children on the guest list doesn’t have to mean stress, chaos or parents taking turns missing the celebrations. With a little thought (and the right support), your wedding can be fun for your little VIPs and genuinely relaxing for the adults.

My name is Nanny Cat and I am The Wedding & Events Nanny. I have worked in childcare for 25 years and been a wedding nanny for over 7 years now so have plenty of tricks of the trade up my sleeve! Here are some tried-and-tested ideas to help children feel included, entertained and settled, while allowing parents to fully enjoy your day too.

Extra Support Makes a Huge Difference

Hiring a wedding nanny can make a huge difference to how your day flows. A wedding nanny can help set up and supervise many of the ideas below, while also supporting children with naps, snacks, emotional regulation and those moments when it all gets a bit much.

Having someone dedicated to the children means parents can relax, enjoy the celebrations and be present knowing their little ones are happy, safe and cared for.

Thoughtful Activities Just for Little VIPs

Small touches can go a long way in keeping children happy and engaged.

Personalised wedding activity books, bubbles or party bags are always a hit. Having a children’s table at dinner can also be great fun, especially when there’s a wedding nanny there to supervise (and it saves a designated parent from missing the speeches!).

If your venue has an outdoor area, consider borrowing or hiring garden games. They’re brilliant for burning off energy and keeping children entertained between key moments.

Creating a kids-only corner with toys, colouring, books or games can also help. A wedding nanny will often bring along toys and books, children can bring their favourites from home, or you can hire extras such as teepees or soft play.

Let Them Feel Part of the Day

Children love feeling involved.

One lovely idea is to ask your little VIP guests to be mini photographers. Give them disposable cameras and a simple list of things to photograph, then let them loose. The results are often hilarious, heartfelt and make wonderful memories.

If you’ve hired a photo booth, consider giving the kids early access with props just for them. It lets them enjoy it fully before it gets busy and creates some brilliant moments.

Photo by Navy Blur Photography

Dancing, Snacks and Fun Moments

A “kids-only” time on the dancefloor is always a winner. Ask your DJ to play a few favourite children’s songs before or after the first dance and let them dance, spin and knee-slide their hearts out 🙌 It adds an extra layer of fun for everyone.

A wee snack tray just for the kids during the drinks reception can also be a lifesaver, hungry children and long waits rarely mix well!

Calm Spaces and Bedtime Boundaries

Weddings can be long and overstimulating days for little ones. Having a quiet room or calm area where children can relax with iPads, toys or even a mini cinema setup can make a huge difference, especially during speeches or later in the evening.

Some couples also choose to build a bedtime into their wedding timeline. Having one clear “kids’ bedtime” can make it easier for parents to negotiate some child-free time, and after that set point it can naturally become more adult-focused, allowing parents to let their hair down and enjoy the party.

A Final Thought

This list isn’t exhaustive, and what works will always depend on the ages and needs of your little VIPs. But with thoughtful planning, the right balance of fun and calm, and dedicated childcare support where needed, children can genuinely enjoy your wedding day and parents can relax knowing everything is taken care of.

And that’s when the day feels really special for everyone 💜