Sleepover party planning

The two decisions that determine how a sleepover goes are how many children come and what time lights go off. Everything else is detail.

Four is the sweet spot. Odd numbers of very young children tend to leave someone out.

Numbers and ages

• Three to five guests is manageable; more needs a second adult.
• Age seven or eight upwards for a first sleepover, though it varies hugely.
• Keep the group close in age - two years apart is fine, five is not.
• Offer a 'sleepunder': home by 9pm for anyone not ready to stay.

A timeline that holds

• 4pm arrivals, so there is daylight for the loud games.
• 6pm food - something they all definitely eat.
• 8pm pyjamas and quieter games. This is the important one.
• 9.30 to 10pm lights off, announced early and repeated once.
• 8am up, breakfast, and a 10am pickup time stated in advance.

What to tell the other parents

• Who will be in the house overnight.
• Pickup time, in writing, not implied.
• Ask about allergies, medication, bedwetting and any night-time worries.
• Get a mobile number that will be answered at 1am.

Homesickness and house rules

• Agree upfront that going home in the night is completely fine and not a failure.
• Set two rules only: stay in the agreed rooms, and quiet after lights out.
• Keep a spare toothbrush, pillow and a nightlight to hand.
• Screens and phones: decide the rule before they arrive, and tell the parents.

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How to write it so it lands

• Announce lights-off at the start, not when you want it to happen.
• State the pickup time in writing when you invite them.
• Make going home in the night an agreed, blame-free option.

Where to shop next

• Teacher end of year gifts
• What to write in a teacher end of year card
• Class party ideas
• Sleepover games
• Pocket money gift ideas
• Sticker reward chart ideas
• End of term class gift ideas
• Kids and school guides
• Printable school and party sheets
• All guides
• Planning the party? Birthday party ideas
• How to make a balloon arch
• Photo booth prop ideas

Frequently asked questions

How many kids should you invite to a sleepover?

Three to five is manageable for one adult. More than that needs a second pair of hands.

What age is right for a first sleepover?

Commonly around seven or eight, but it depends entirely on the child. A sleepunder with a 9pm pickup is a good halfway step.

What should you ask other parents before a sleepover?

Allergies, medication, night-time worries or bedwetting, a mobile number that will be answered overnight, and confirm the pickup time.