Tips Guides Resources

Every Mom runs into a fussy eater now and then, when deciding what type of food to serve at a kid’s party, it is best to keep these finicky appetites in mind. Everyone will be a lot happier that way and it will help to ensure that you don’t have loads of leftovers. Have a few favorites you know every child will enjoy.

Tip number one. Cheese and crackers. With so many different varieties of cheese and crackers, available today, chances are most kids will eat this nutritious finger food. Purchase several varieties of both and arrange them on a large platter. For added convenience, you can purchase cheese that has been pre-cut into fun shapes. Or cut shapes yourself, with cookie cutters. If you’re feeling really adventurous allow the children to cut the shapes from cheese as part of the party activities. They can eat the leftovers.

Mini melted cheese sandwiches are fun too. Use the cocktail breads that have slices about 3 inches square. Place a slice of cheese between the bread and toast in a frying pan that has been brushed with melted butter. Cut the little sandwiches in half. They can be served at room temperature.

Tip number two. Hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, and tacos. Think about it, what kid doesn’t like this yummy combo? You can easily serve a variety of condiments that the kid’s can choose from. Mini hot dogs are a fun alternative to traditional ones. Cut a dinner roll in half and then again down the middle making a slit the hot dog can fit in.

Macaroni and cheese can be made from scratch. It can be baked and served in a crock pot. You can even get creative, adding things like ham chunks, mushrooms or broccoli. Serve the mac and cheese in a corn chip “dipper.” Each corn chip is the perfect size for one bite.

Tacos are fast, tasty, and inexpensive. Pre fill with beans, seasoned ground beef, or shredded chicken. Heat in the oven right before serving. Let the kids add what they want from a selection of toppings including shredded cheeses, chopped lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, green peppers. Add dishes of sour cream, mild salsa, and guacamole.

Tip number 3. Serve different kinds of sandwiches. This is another ‘finger food’ that can’t go wrong. Make several different varieties such as peanut butter and jelly or bananas, ham and cheese, tuna fish and chicken salad. Vary the breads. Use whole wheat, white, dinner rolls, mini croissants, and marble bread. Use only one kind of bread for each filling. Serve each variety on a separate plate. Add a sign so the kids know what they’re getting. You really can’t go wrong with these traditional choices.

Whatever you decide to serve, make sure you provide plenty of beverages, as well. This is especially important on hot summer days.

Resources: Free report on Party Ideas for Kids Dee Power is the co-author of several nonfiction books. Get your free copy of Weddings on a Shoestring Budget