Create a Child-Friendly Tea Party

I absolutely love tea.  Having said that, I take every opportunity I can to visit tea shops.  The majority of the shops offer afternoon tea or high tea and I have to say that sitting down for a “tea party” really is my idea of a perfect time. 

So when it came time to decide on my Daughter’s first birthday theme several years ago, I instantly chose to have a tea party theme.  Since I love to bake, the decision was easy.  However, I realize that for some the idea of actually creating a child-friendly tea party can be overwhelming. 

So I am sharing some of my best tips and suggestions for creating a memorable child’s tea party for either a special occasion or just because.

Table decor matters
Since the party will be catering to the appeal of children, you don’t have to go overboard.  You can pick up an inexpensive tablecloth or better yet, pick up a disposable one.  Since my Daughter loved Disney’s Princesses, I purchased a disposable one and it was perfect. 

You can also use something you already own that has a pretty print on it, such as a flat sheet that you can fit over the table.  Wrapping paper is also another suggestion since you can basically wrap the tabletop with it.  I put a decorative bowl on the table and placed pink marshmallows in it since the party was pink. 

I also purchased pink flowers to set up in a vase in the center.  Simply be creative and you can usually come up with tons of ideas with existing items you already have laying around your house or garden.

Keep the tablewear appropriate
Since children will be handling the plates and cups, you don’t want to use anything fragile or breakable.  You can purchase a plastic tea cup set at almost any retailer, which also doubles as a gift.  Another inexpensive option is to use white paper cups and plates.  Set out colored markers and/or stickers before the party begins to allow each child to decorate their own “tea cup.”

Beverage Options
Since it is a tea party, the expectation is to serve tea.  However, children and hot tea do not go well together.  If you want to serve a child-friendly tea, then you would want to go with bubble gum tea and put it on ice.  I chose pink lemonade at my Daughter’s party because I find it more child appropriate.  Any yummy beverage with some color to it will work.

Finger Sandwiches
Finger sandwiches are one of the best highlights of a tea party and children love these.  You can make your child’s favorite sandwich and simply cut it up into little squares or triangles.  A regular sandwich will cut up into 4 finger sandwiches, so you can add variety.  Egg salad, tuna, turkey, peanut butter & jelly and cucumber are a few suggestions.  You can present the sandwiches on a dessert tier or laid out nicely on a plate for each child to choose their own.

Dainties and Scones
Scones and dainties are tea party staples.  Luckily, scones can be made in so many varieties and are quick to make.  Making a basic scone and swirling in food coloring or fruit pieces is a child favorite as well.  For dainties, I made varies types of cookies in petite sizes.  Dulce De Leche, Spritz and Cinnamon Sugar were just some of the types I made and they were all a big hit.  If you are not the type to bake, you can easily pick up some cookies at your local grocery or bakery that will work just fine.

Cupcakes are a Must
If celebrating a birthday, cake is a must.  Since using a tea party concept calls for items you can pick up with your hands, I recommend cupcakes.  They set up very nicely on a dessert tier or plate and can be customized to fit the theme.  I made regular-size cupcakes, but you can also create mini cupcakes depending on your preference.  Either way, cake in any form will be appreciated.

Now the most important step above all else is to enjoy the party.  Don’t worry if it is not perfect or something gets spilled.  A child remembers how memorable something was, not how many types of cookies they got to eat.  Sit, relax and enjoy the party ♥