Hi everyone, I want to plan a celebration that includes all family members, from grandparents to toddlers. Do you have tips for creating memorable, inclusive events? Thanks! — Grace
Hi Grace, that’s such a thoughtful goal. Planning a truly inclusive celebration is all about making people feel seen and respected.
From my perspective, the best family gatherings are built on the same principles as any healthy relationship: respect for individual boundaries and autonomy. While I don’t have children myself, I believe this applies to everyone, from a toddler needing a quiet nap space to a teenager who might prefer to observe for a bit rather than being forced into a group game.
One idea is to create different “zones”—a quiet area for conversation, a space for louder games, and maybe an outdoor spot. This gives people the freedom to engage how they feel comfortable, fostering a sense of trust that they can just be themselves. You could also consider a “tech-free” hour. It’s not about control, but about creating a shared opportunity for genuine connection. When people feel respected rather than managed, I think that’s when the most memorable and joyful moments happen.
Hope your celebration is a beautiful one
Hi Grace,
That’s a challenge I know all too well. With my three at 15, 10, and 6, finding something that everyone enjoys without someone complaining is basically a miracle.
Honestly, for me, a big part of making a celebration “inclusive” these days is just getting everyone to be present. My biggest headache is the phones. It’s hard to feel like you’re having a family moment when my oldest is glued to his screen, and even the 10-year-old is asking for her tablet. I’ve looked at those apps that are supposed to lock down devices, but honestly, I’m skeptical. Most of the good features are behind a paywall, and it feels like just another subscription to manage. Plus, it usually causes more fights than it solves.
One thing we’ve tried that doesn’t cost a penny is making it a game. We have a “phone drop-off” basket by the door. Everyone, adults included, puts their phone in the basket when they arrive. The first one to crack and grab their phone has to help with the dishes. It gets a few groans, especially from the teenager, but making it a lighthearted challenge works better than just laying down the law.
Another trick I’ve used is to put my 15-year-old in charge of the music or making him the “official photographer.” It gives him a reason to use his phone that’s actually connected to the family event, so he’s looking around and engaging instead of just staring down into a group chat.
It’s a constant negotiation, though. I’m always a bit wary of any one-size-fits-all solution for families because every dynamic is so different.
I’d be curious to hear what others have tried that actually works. Is there a magic trick to getting teenagers to happily disconnect for a few hours? I’m all ears
Hi Grace! Welcome to the forum!
Oh my gosh, what a wonderful question. It’s something I think about all the time. Planning a party that a 2-year-old, my 9 and 13-year-olds, and their great-grandma will all enjoy can feel like a mission impossible sometimes, right? But it’s so worth it when you see everyone laughing and connecting.
We just had a big family BBQ for my dad’s 70th, and it really made me think about this. Here are a few things that I’ve found really help make everyone feel included and happy:
1. Create Different “Zones”:
Instead of trying to make one space work for everyone, I try to set up a few different areas.
- A Quiet Corner: We always have a comfy, quieter space, usually inside or on a shaded patio, for my older relatives (and honestly, any introvert who needs a break!). It’s a place where they can sit and chat without having to shout over loud music or screaming kids.
- A Toddler-Proof Play Area: For the little ones, I set up a blanket on the grass with a basket of age-appropriate toys, maybe some bubbles or a coloring station. It keeps them safely entertained and gives their parents a little breathing room.
- An “Older Kid” Hangout: My 13-year-old and his cousins appreciate having a space that isn’t overrun by toddlers. This could be a spot in the yard for a game of cornhole, or even a room with a video game console set up. It gives them a bit of independence.
2. Food for All Ages:
This is a big one! Trying to find one meal that everyone likes is a recipe for stress. I’ve had the most success with “build-your-own” food bars.
- A taco bar, a baked potato bar, or a pasta station are all huge hits in our family. Everyone gets to pick their own toppings, so the picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions are all happy.
- I also make sure to have simple, easy-to-grab snacks for the little ones, like fruit pouches, cheese sticks, and Goldfish crackers.
3. Activities That Bridge the Gap:
The best moments are when you can get everyone involved together.
- A photo booth with silly props is always a winner! Grandparents, teens, toddlers—everyone loves a funny hat and a giant pair of sunglasses.
- We once did a “family trivia” game with questions about different family members from every generation. It was so fun and sparked some amazing stories.
- Honestly, sometimes the best activity is just having great music playing that spans the decades. It’s amazing to see my kids and their grandparents find a song they both love.
Most importantly, please don’t feel like you have to do it all yourself! Ask people to bring a dish, or ask one of the teens to be in charge of the music. People are usually happy to help.
It sounds like you’re already putting so much love and thought into this, which is what truly makes a celebration special. Don’t stress about perfection—the simple act of bringing everyone together is the real gift.
You’ve got this! Can’t wait to hear how it goes.
Warmly,
A fellow mom of two 
Hi GraceEventPlanner, I love how you’re thinking about everyone from grandparents to toddlers—great point! What’s worked for us is setting clear phone rules before family events, especially with my teen. We have a “devices off during meals and group games” rule. It helps everyone stay present and interact, making the celebration truly inclusive. I don’t use a parental control app yet (still deciding), but just discussing these expectations openly helps a lot. Also, try mixing activities—some active, like games in the yard, and quieter crafts or photo-sharing sessions—so all ages can join in. Hope this helps!
Hello Grace, what a wonderful goal you have! As a grandparent myself, I worry about keeping my grandkids safe online during family gatherings, but I also want everyone to feel included. I’m not very tech-savvy, but I’ve found that setting simple boundaries, like designated device-free times, helps. I’d love to hear if you plan any screen-free activities that work well for all ages. Thanks for starting this important conversation!