Tween Sleepover Party Favors They Will Actually Use
Thoughtful gifts for a sleepover party offer a more grownup alternative to goody bags filled with candy. Image credit: Daisies in Clover
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Planning sleepover parties for tweens can be a challenge. They’re still kids, but they want to be treated like they’re almost grown up. That means traditional goody bags aren’t going to win hearts and minds. These party favor ideas ditch the traditional bags of stickers and candy, giving all your party guests fun treats they’ll actually use during the party and beyond.
Mini Flashlights or Headlamps
We all know the kids aren’t going to sleep when the lights go out. Instead of fighting it, lean into the idea with mini flashlights or headlamps everyone can use while telling ghost stories or just sharing some late-night gossip. Look for designs in fun colors that match the party theme and be sure you have some extra batteries on hand, just in case.
Glow Sticks or Glow-in-the-Dark Bracelets
These party favors keep with the theme of kids staying up after lights out, but they’re also great for glow party themes. Everyone can use them for a lights-out game of freeze dance, creating mesmerizing trails of vibrant color that add extra fun to the night’s festivities. Glow sticks, glow bracelets, and other similar accessories are available in bulk packs, so you can pass out a few to every party guest.
Reusable Water Bottles
Passing out reusable water bottles solves a couple of problems all at once. Kids get a fun, on-trend favor to take home, and you don’t have to worry about having disposable cups on hand throughout the party. You just need to make sure they’re all washed and ready to use for the night. If you have a Cricut, consider making personalized labels for each water bottle. You can also turn this favor into an activity with some simple arts and crafts supplies (check out our Charm Bar Party post for all the details).
Cozy Throw Blankets
Passing out throw blankets to all your tween’s sleepover party guests is a perfect way to make them all feel welcome and comfortable (plus, it’s an extra bonus for any kids who may have forgotten to bring a sleeping bag). Cute themed throw blankets are easy to find at affordable prices at places like Five Below, Target, or Amazon. Cozy plaids are great options, but you can also go for cute designs that fit the season (such as adorable Halloween-inspired designs for an October birthday party). You can also buy soft solid-color throw blankets in bulk!
Plush Socks
Is your home a shoes-off house? If your tween’s party guests don’t already know it, they might feel a little self-conscious (especially if they show up in sandals with no socks on). Gifting everyone a pair of plush, cozy socks keeps everyone comfortable throughout the night, and it also makes kids who might be self-conscious about their feet a reason to relax just a bit. Check out Target’s bargain bins at the front of the store to stock up on adorable socks for the party.
Spa-Inspired Party Favors
Some tweens love a spa moment, so lean into this idea by passing out kid-friendly face masks, nail polish, or other spa-inspired skincare products. For this idea, it’s best to check with parents first just to make sure you account for any skin sensitivities. Bulk packs of face masks are perfect for tween sleepovers, and mini bottles of nail polish are an affordable option for a tween sleepover party.
Other Tween Sleepover Party Favors Worth Mentioning
Of course, there are many other options to consider, depending on your tween’s interests. Here are just a few more ideas to consider:
Trading cards (baseball, Pokemon, etc.)
Journals or notebooks and gel pens
Small stuffed animals (think mini Squishmallows or pillow-style stuffies)
Fidget/sensory toys (Nee Doh, Dumplings squishy toys, slime, putty)
A quick note about stuffed animals: some tweens still sleep with stuffies but are nervous about letting their friends know. Passing out cute stuffed animals can be a great relief for them. They have an excuse to cuddle with a stuffie without feeling nervous or self-conscious. If you have it in the budget, stuffies are a strong contender for a tween sleepover party favor.
Packaging the Party Favors
If you choose to give out more than one favor, place everything into simple kraft paper gift bags with each guest’s name neatly written on the front. Single items, like the reusable water bottle, can be decorated with a simple ribbon for a fun presentation. For a spa-themed sleepover, consider adding a face mask, nail file, and bottle of nail polish in a small party favor bag for each guest.
Tweens aren’t little kids anymore, and you can make yours feel a little more grown up (but not completely grown because we know we aren’t ready for that yet) with thoughtful party favors everyone will appreciate.
