Ideas for kids at family party

[Ikeatears]

My parents are celebrating a big anniversary at my house in a couple of weeks. Our children are grown up and all boys in the house.
My nephew is 4 but has some SEN (low verbal, possible autism, high energy, impulsive), our granddaughter is nearly 2 and we have nieces 7, 11 and 15.
I want ideas of things for the kids to do.
There won't be much space for them to sit at a table for crafts etc. but I could maybe make a bit of room and we do have fully open plan and wood floors so im not precious about spillages etc.

The balloons I've ordered are simple helium on a string that will double as decoration and play things for the little ones. The desserts I've ordered are individual cake type things so they can help themselves.

I thought I'd get some bubbles, I have some ball pit balls that I could put out, maybe a diamond art for the older girls? I know they'll probably mainly be on their phones but I want to offer some alternatives.

Any other ideas? My nephew in particular is sensory seeking. I want them to feel comfortable and for their parents to not have to worry about them being on their 'best behaviour' (dh and I are relaxed and used to children but some older relatives not so much) and it's harder for them if they're bored.

Could you designate a space (eg a bedroom) your nephew could go if needed.

Gingerbread house decorating always goes down well. You can buy kits with icing and sweets.

I’d avoid bubbles. They will spill everywhere and stain clothes. Ditto the ball pit - the older people will be forever tripping over balls.

If you have time I’d make up a little pack for each child. Two year old could have stickers and the magic drawing things you just use water for. Older girls jewellery making maybe. Not sure about a 15 year old but sure others will have ideas.

Thanks. Jewellery making is on the list. I don't really have a room that's 'safe' for him. I can child proof downstairs pretty much but our bedrooms will be off limits.

Oh and magic drawing too! Thanks

Wifi codes for the older ones to chill. Bean bags or comfy places to sit. Doubt the older ones will do crafts

The 2 year old probably can't really be left on own. The older ones may want to help but depends on their relationship. The 7 Yr old may want to help but that's still a big responsibility.

For the 4yr old he may feel anxious about a different setting or too much noise. Depending on his triggers/demands. So I would worry on the older ones having to look after him. Especially if many strangers are there.

I appreciate you are trying to let the parents have a break and enjoy the party but it may not be as simple As setting up things for them all especially various ages and needs.

Though blankets and a den to hide in would help. Pillows and asking the parents to bring his regular toys Pillows and comforting things.

The 2 Yr old may just crash and fall asleep In pram or any area with a pillow. I know mine were happy to just lying on the floor even during a loud party. But it does depend on the child.

Most of all let the parents lead the way. If they have to go help them then just pass them food and drinks so they are not left out. Don't make a big deal if they need to be in the other room. But also adapt to how it goes on the night.

I say this as a parent of nd child. No one can fully predict what will happen and as long as I feel I'm not disturbing anyone else by having to go help my child it's lovely to be included

Thank you. Yes to Wi-Fi codes. Oh absolutely, all the children will be supervised, most likely by their parents, although I look after the younger 3 pretty regularly so they're comfortable around me but I imagine I'll be busy hosting. The parents won't get a break as such, I just want to give them options for entertainment.
When mine were young it was easier with visiting children because we had toys/games/activities on hand.
The whole ground floor is open plan so they'll all pretty much be within sight at all times anyway.
I think I might pick up a pop up tent - I know nursery provide something similar for my nephew and our granddaughter will enjoy it. They're all used to coming here but not necessarily when there are lots of other people. It's all immediate family (we are 4 siblings) plus an elderly aunt and two friends of my parents and it won't be a wild party - more of a get together.

Just a hopeful bump for the day time crowd...

Please do NOT 'Army-volunteer' the older teenager as a designated babysitter - she won't thank you for it.

I know the weather is on the turn, but do you have a garden with sheltered areas within reach of WiFi that the older ones can withdraw to?

This thread is 2 years old. @annakblue bumped it to promote their balloon business by the looks of it.