I'm planning DS 1st bday party, and we don't have many people with kids coming. But those that have kids are close to us and we want to make sure they can come. The kids coming are 2 years old and 3 years old and I have no idea what a typical nap time at that age is. I'm thinking a start time for the party either 1pm, 2pm, or 3pm. What does Parenting think would be best?
Thanks!
ETA: also trying to decide between a Saturday or Sunday.
Re: Party and Nap coordinating
Typical nap time for my 2 year old is right after lunch so about 1230 to 230. Her friends are about 3 and they all nap at about 1 or 2. Honestly the best time for toddler activities is in the morning or late afternoon (after 3)
I've had great success for a few years with 4:30 PM party times. However, then people will expect a meal (we serve dinner). I'm not sure if that is what you want. But the time has worked out really well, with my kids' naps and all of the other kids' naps. Plenty of time for them to get in a full nap and get to our house without feeling rushed.
My kid goes down for a nap at noon, falls asleep around 1, and wakes around 3. Even making a 3:00 party, I usually have to wake him up. I like morning parties much better. :-) For an afternoon party, though, I'd do at least 2 or 3.
I would like 11-2 best since that's when DS is at his most active and in the best mood, with 4-6 the second choice even though that means you should serve dinner. Unfortunately, kids this age are all over the place. Some still nap early at noon, others nap later at 2:00. Some don't nap at all or can easily skip and some are still beastly if they don't get a nap. I would say just do what works best for you and your LO, or if you want, call the guests and ask what the nap times are for their kids like PP suggested.