How to Occupy Children at Events Without Using Screens
Guest Blog by the Leeds Wedding Nanny
Weddings are a celebration of love, family, and togetherness. But for anyone who has ever sat through a 20-minute ceremony with a restless toddler, you know the “silent struggle.” There are moments like the vows, the sentimental speeches, the quiet dinner – all times where we desperately need children to be still. In these high-pressure moments, it is incredibly tempting to reach for an iPad or a phone to buy a few minutes of peace. However, we know that heavy screen use isn’t ideal, especially for children under two, whose developing brains crave tactile, real-world stimulation. More importantly, we want children to feel like they are part of the wedding, not just parked in front of a blue-light glow while the world happens around them.
So, how do you keep children engaged and “boredom-proof” without resorting to digital distractions? Here are a few practical, “aesthetic-friendly” tips for your big day:
Sensory Dinosaur Bins
Fill a small wooden crate or wicker basket with colored dry rice and hide miniature dinosaurs inside. It provides a satisfying tactile experience that keeps little hands busy and quiet for long stretches.
The Painter’s Tape Car Track
This is a miracle for active toddlers. Use low-tack masking tape to create a “track” or “road” directly on the floor of your designated play area. Add a few wooden cars, and you have an instant, mess-free activity that’s easy to peel up at the end of the night.
Mess-Free Water Paint Books
These “magic” water books allow children to “paint” using only a water-filled pen. The colors appear as they brush and disappear as they dry. No stains on the venue’s white linens and no ink on the flower girl’s dress!
Written by Leeds Wedding Nanny, a bespoke wedding nanny service based in Yorkshire. A current primary school teacher and highly experienced nanny. | IN: @Leedsweddingnanny | FB: The Leeds Wedding Nanny
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