Discover 7 practical tips for taking toddlers to festivals. Learn how regular festival going parents navigate noise, naps, and minimise tantrums.
Tantrums, Tiara's and Testing Times: 7 Practical Tips for Taking Toddlers to Festivals
In our last blog post, we gave you our top tips for attending festivals with your baby (you can read it here).
But when that baby becomes mobile it's a whole new ball game!
Your little one is now walking, or more likely running everywhere. Chatty is probably an understatement for how much they talk and if your toddler is anything like mine was, their curiosity will be in overdrive and they'll be into everything.
While some of the tips from the baby stage still apply, when you are taking toddlers to festivals there are lots of new challenges to navigate.
Will your toddler get overstimulated and meltdown? How will you handle their newfound independence in a crowded space? What if they wander off? These worries might make you consider skipping the festival scene altogether.
But don't pack away your festival gear just yet! With the right preparation and mindset, you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a family festival with your toddler in tow.
Read on for our top tips to ensure a fun and stress-free festival experience for the whole family.
1. Pack Smart
Your festival packing list needs an upgrade from the baby days:
* Bring more snacks than you think you'll need
* Pack a variety of toys and activities
* Include a first aid kit with toddler-specific items
* Don't forget the sunscreen and bug spray
2. Stay Hydrated
Keeping your toddler hydrated is crucial:
* Bring their favourite reusable water bottle or cup
* Offer water frequently, especially on hot days
* Pack hydrating snacks like watermelon or oranges
3. Swap out the Stroller
Even if your toddler usually prefers to walk:
* A trolley provides a safe space in crowded areas
* It's useful for rests on the go
* You can use it to carry your gear
4. Plan for Potty Breaks
If your toddler is potty training, don't let that derail your plans:
Locate toilets as soon as you arrive
Bring a portable potty seat for emergencies
Pack extra clothes and wipes
5. Safety First
In busy festival environments, safety is paramount:
Write your phone number on a wristband for your toddler
Take a photo of your toddler each morning to remember their outfit
Agree on a meeting point in case you get separated
Consider using a toddler harness in very crowded areas
6. Manage Expectations
Remember, festival-going with a toddler is different:
Be prepared to miss some acts to accommodate your toddler's needs
Focus on the overall experience rather than ticking off a list of must-see bands
Stay flexible and go with the flow
7. Involve Your Toddler
Make your toddler feel part of the festival experience:
Let them choose some activities or performances to attend
Engage them in the music by dancing together
Bring instruments like shakers or tambourines for them to join in
By following these tips, you can transform a potentially stressful situation into a magical family adventure. Festivals offer a unique opportunity for your toddler to experience new sights, sounds, and sensations in a vibrant, creative environment. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can create lasting memories and nurture your little one's love for music and the arts.
Ready to become a family festival pro? Take your festival planning to the next level with "The Fantabulous Family Festival Planner". This comprehensive guide is packed with even more tips, checklists, and insider knowledge to help you navigate festivals with kids of all ages. From packing lists to activity ideas, it's your ultimate resource for stress-free family festival fun. Don't let another summer pass by – grab your copy today and start planning your next fantastic family festival adventure!
Written by Joanna Armah-Kinson (Owner, The Fantabulous Family)
Joanna is the wife of a festival performer, who is lucky enough to spend the majority of her summer weekends at festivals entertaining her (now 11-year-old) son. As a mum who juggles a part-time job and managing two businesses, she knows the importance of good planning, and the need for flexibility and good grace when plans fall through! A lifelong adventure lover, travel, photography and spending time outdoors have always been Joanna's passions.
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Joanna Armah-Kinson 
