Even as restrictions start to ease in many states over the coming months, this summer will be different than past summers. With most weddings, vacations, birthday parties and graduation ceremonies cancelled, it is more important now than ever to find new ways to host celebrations the whole family can look forward to. The team here at British American Household Staffing has put together a list of little ways to acknowledge and celebrate milestones (or just Friday nights!) at home this summer.
Plan and Decorate
Whether your child is facing changed plans for a birthday, a graduation or another milestone, take the time to plan a special at-home celebration in advance of the big day. Plan as you would any other party – make a guest list and let virtual attendees know to save the date. Older children can customize and send invitations out online via Minted (currently free due to COVID-19) or Paperless Post so the event still feels official. Don’t forget to decorate! We recommend Little Miss Party in a Box for simple, fun banners, balloons, paper products and more for any type of event, from themed birthdays and Father’s Day to fun at-home movie nights.
Camp Out
A night in tents in the backyard or blanket forts in the living room feels extra special to children disappointed about cancelled summer camps or other outdoor plans. Younger children will love making this DIY paper campfire while older children with access to a backyard will enjoy this portable, easy to extinguish campfire. Make S’mores (on the stovetop counts!) and take turns telling spooky stories. The Spruce published this inventive list last year of flashlight games for kids – perfect for an indoor camp out!
Hire a Virtual Performer
Many children’s acts have moved performances online during this time. Now you can orchestrate a virtual visit from a garden fairy or a live, personal sing-along with your child’s favorite Disney character. Consider taking it a step further and have your child and their virtual guests dress up for the occasion; challenge children to come up with an outfit from their own closet or order something special from Magic Cabin or Melissa & Doug.
DIY Something Delicious
Your favorite restaurants might be closed but more and more are offering DIY kits to make specialty foods at home. Get the whole family involved to cook and eat together. Baz Bagels offers a bagel making kit (complete with toppings and a fun playlist from the store!) to make the perfect brunch spread. NYC’s iconic Katz Deli is currently shipping pastrami sandwich kits and other specialities nationwide. Flour Shop now sells mixes for their exploding confetti cake, as well as cake pops online via Williams Sonoma.
Splurge on a Sweet Treat
Many of the country’s best bakeries are now delivering all over the country. Magnolia Bakery offers nationwide shipping on birthday cakes, cupcakes and more. Famed Portland ice cream shop Salt & Straw (Danny Meyer’s favorite!) ships frozen pints all over the U.S. Flavors change frequently; right now we love their Salted, Malted, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper. We also recommend this brownie assortment from the small Brooklyn shop, Baked, and, of course, we love La Durée’s macarons.
As always, we’re here to assist with all your household staffing needs during this challenging time. Both childcare and cleaning professionals are considered essential workers and we have implemented strict protocols to make sure your family is as safe as possible. Contact us today to learn more.