Kids' Table at a Wedding: Should You Have One?

If children are on your guest list, you have a choice: a dedicated kids' table, or seat them with their families. Both work — here is how to decide and make it a success.

When a kids' table works

A kids' table is great when you have four or more children of roughly primary-school age — about 5 to 12 — especially if some of them already know each other. They have their own fun, parents get a relaxed dinner nearby, and the energy stays contained.

Where to put it

In sight of the parents' tables, not across the room: close enough that a parent can reach it in seconds, far enough that the adults still get a conversation. Keep it away from the speakers (the band will be loud enough at adult tables), the candles, and — learned the hard way at many weddings — the cake table.

When to seat kids with family

Toddlers and very young children should sit with their parents — they need supervision and a high chair. Seat mixed ages together when there are only one or two children, or when parents prefer to keep their family as a unit. There is no single right answer; ask parents if you're unsure.

Note high chairs, booster seats, and younger children in each guest's details so the venue and caterer are prepared — and so your plan reminds you who needs what.

Make the kids' table a hit

• Activity packs: colouring, small puzzles, non-messy games.
• A kid-friendly menu served at the same time as the adults.
• For lots of little ones, consider a babysitter or entertainer.

However you handle it, mark each child clearly in your seating plan with a note, and keep families together where it matters using couple and group links. For the wider conventions, see wedding seating etiquette and the overview of who sits where at a wedding.