Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

Personal family time is essential to our family, but when company comes through town, we love to host them! This past weekend our Portland friends joined us for a night, and I was torn between keeping the Thanksgiving decorations up, or putting up some simple Christmas ones. (Chalkboard paper runner tips to come!)

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Christmas won! I was ready to move on to the next holiday, and actually it was quite easy, since everything was at my fingertips. I do keep my entertaining supplies well-organized, so it literally took me under 5 minutes to set my table for guests.

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

Kids were coming, so my first thought was how to incorporate them at the table? Sometimes we put the kids at a separate table, but when there are only 2 families, we like to squeeze everyone around one table.

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

I pulled out my chalkboard paper runner and a package of Dollar Store red Christmas ornaments and red paper napkins. MacKenzie-Childs charger, Dollar Store black plates and drinking glasses.

And a bowl of chalk.

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

When our guests arrived, I asked the 7-year old to write our guest’s names on the table runner, where everyone should sit.

It’s so fun to include the kids!

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

Hanging around the table and doodling on the table after the meal was over – a type of hospitality that relaxed everyone – of all ages!

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

Create a fun table for kids with Chalkboard Paper for the holidays!

Simplicity was on my mind, something unique and different where the kids would not want to run off and play.

I have to say, it was a successful adult/kid dinner party!

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After the meal, I gathered the chalkboard paper runner, folded it into a square, tied a red ribbon around it, and presented it to my friend.

A lovely gift of chalkboard doodles from our family to hers.

And one she could reuse–by flipping it over for a brand new table, or memories of this night–for her family during the holidays!

What’s your favorite tip for hosting kids during the holidays?

I purchased the roll of chalkboard paper in a garden shop in Kohler, WI, but I found a link online that sells it in different lengths. Check it out, here.