The summer holidays are a golden opportunity for families to reconnect, and nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ. However, as any parent knows, a perfect BBQ involves more than just flipping burgers; it requires a strategy to keep kids entertained and engaged. Planning a kid-friendly bbq ensures that the little ones aren’t just hovering around the snack table but are instead creating cherished memories through active play and creative exploration.
This guide explores how to transform your backyard into a hub of excitement, from games and activities that burn off energy to a bbq menu that even the pickiest eaters will cherish. By incorporating a mix of fun activities, delicious food, and safety guidelines, you can create a memorable experience for guests of all ages. Let’s dive into the bbq ideas that will make your next gathering a classic for all ages.
BBQ Activities That Keep Kids Engaged
Not every child wants to run around the entire time. Providing a “quiet zone” with arts and crafts allows for a balanced experience for everyone.
Arts and crafts station setup
Set up a DIY craft station in a shaded area. Use a heavy tablecloth and provide plenty of wet wipes for easy cleanup. This designated play area should be far enough from the grill to be safe, but close enough so parents can keep an eye on the fun.
Tie-dye and wearable crafts
Tie-dyeing white t-shirts or bandanas is a BBQ staple. It serves as both a fun activity and a take-home souvenir. If tie-dye feels too messy for your space, offer plain white aprons and fabric markers so the kids can design their own “Junior Grill Master” outfits.
DIY paper and recycled crafts
Use paper plates to create colourful frisbees or turn empty tin cans (with sanded edges) into stilts. These diy bbq projects teach kids about recycling while providing them with new toys to play with for the rest of the barbecue party.
Grill-themed creative projects
Print out menu coloring sheets where kids can draw their perfect bbq meal. You can also provide play-dough for them to model their own “food,” like tiny corn on the cob or veggie skewers.
Food-Based BBQ Activities for Kids
Food is the heart of any barbecue, and involving kids in the process (safely) increases their willingness to try new things.
Mini grill role-play activities
For the youngest guests, a kid-friendly grill (a plastic toy version) allows them to mimic the adults. They can “cook” plastic hot dog links and buns while the real grill is handled by an adult. This keeps them away from the heat while still feeling included in the bbq fun.
DIY ice cream and dessert bars
Nothing beats ice cream sundaes on a hot day. Create a topping station with crushed cookies, sprinkles, and fresh fruit such as watermelon, with cucumber slices for a refreshing twist for a refreshing twist. Let the kids build their own creations – it’s a delicious food activity that always gets a thumbs up.
S’mores and no-fire alternatives
As the sun begins to set, the fire pit usually becomes the focal point. While roasting a marshmallow for a classic s’more is a tradition, you can also offer “S’mores in a Cone.” Fill a waffle cone with chocolate chips and marshmallows, wrap it in foil, and warm it on the cooler edge of the grill.
Lemonade stand and drink stations
Set up a drink station where kids can mix their own fruit-infused waters. Provide slices of lemon, lime, and sprigs of mint. You can even let the older children run a “lemonade stand” to practice their math skills with play money.
The table below highlights popular BBQ activities, the skills they develop, and their typical mess level.
| Activity | Skill Developed | Mess Level |
| Tie-Dye | Creativity | High |
| Obstacle Course | Gross Motor | Low |
| DIY Sundae Bar | Sensory/Choice | Medium |
| Scavenger Hunt | Problem Solving | Low |
Kid-Ready BBQ Space Setup
A well-organized space is the key to planning a BBQ that is stress-free.
- Safe zones away from grills: Use physical barriers or brightly colored tape to mark a “No-Go Zone” around the barbecue.
- Shade and comfort solutions: Set up pop-up tents or use large umbrellas. Kids overheat faster than adults, so a cool spot is essential.
- Seating and play zones: Provide child-sized chairs or a large picnic blanket. Having a specific area for the little ones to eat their mac and cheese or hot dog helps minimize spills.
BBQ Party Games for Mixed Ages
When planning a BBQ, you often have a range of ages from toddlers to grandparents. The goal is to find activities that work for all ages.
Games for toddlers and preschoolers
Focus on sensory play. A “bubble station” where they can blow bubbles is endlessly entertaining. You can also provide sidewalk chalk for them to create colourful murals on the driveway.
Games for older kids
Older children enjoy a bit more friendly competition. Organize a mini-tournament of “Cornhole” or a more complex treasure hunt with riddles.
Family-inclusive games
“Giant Jenga” or “Lawn Bowling” (using water bottles as pins) are activities where parents and kids can take turns and play together. This builds a shared, memorable experience that will last a lifetime.
Weather Backup BBQ Activities
Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate with your summer bbq plans.
Indoor-friendly BBQ games
If you have to move the backyard barbecue inside, transition to activities like “Balloon Volleyball” or board games. You can still serve the bbq menu – hot dogs and veggie burgers taste just as good from an indoor griddle.
Movie night alternatives
If the rain clears up but it’s too damp for games, an outdoor movie theater is a great pivot. Hang a white sheet, string up some string lights, and put out blankets. It’s a cozy way to end the day as the sun begins to set.
BBQ Safety Tips for Kids
Safety is the foundation of any perfect bbq. According to the National Fire Protection Association, thousands of home fires are started by grills each year, often involving children.
- Grill and heat safety rules: Maintain a “3-foot safety zone” around the grill. Never leave a hot barbecue unattended.
- Food safety for kids: Ensure all meat is cooked to the correct internal temperature. Keep perishables, such as cucumber salad or mac and cheese, on ice.
- Water play safety: If using a pool or large water feature, designate a “Water Watcher” adult who is not distracted by the grill or conversation.
BBQ Themes for Kids Parties
- Campout Theme: Use the fire pit, tell stories, and serve food in tin foil packets.
- Mini Carnival: Set up different games and activities booths and offer small prizes at each one.
- Beach Bash: Even if you’re inland, use sand toys, play Hawaiian music, and serve tropical fruit skewers.
BBQ Activities Planning Checklist
Supplies and equipment list
- Games: Bean bags, hula hoops, wooden blocks, cone markers.
- Food: Hot dog packs, buns, halloumi, watermelon, corn on the cob, marshmallows.
- Safety: First aid kit, fire extinguisher, sunblock, bug spray.
- Ambiance: String lights, music playlist, comfortable seating.
Activity timing and rotation
Don’t schedule every minute. Start with high-energy outdoor games, move to delicious food, and end with quieter activities for kids like a movie or s’mores.