Ever try getting a babysitter on New Year’s Eve? I would rather save the dough and spend the special night in with my kiddos. To keep my kid’s happy, I’ll invite friends and family and their youngsters to join in on the celebration. As a host, this means planning a menu that’s kid and adult friendly — plus some entertainment for the kids so the grownups can relax. Check out these family-friendly dishes that will make everyone happy!

One of the most important rules when hosting a New Year’s Eve bash with the kids in tow is to have activities planned. If you have elementary school kids or younger, set up pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags on the floor for them to fall asleep on (so the adults can enjoy the rest of the party). Here are five activities I’ve done with fabulous results:

• Have a karaoke contest (adults can get involved too).
• Set up art projects (I love foam sticker projects this time of year).
• Have a dance party. Set up a playlist of kid-friendly tunes and if you like to watch the ball drop, have the kids dance to the performers.
• Pull out the dress-up chest and don’t forget the high heels and sparkly purses —you’ll get the cutest photos of your little ones.
• Have a glow stick party to ring in the New Year by inserting glow sticks into balloons and inflating them.
• Schedule an early countdown to midnight for little guests (they won’t know the difference, promise!).

Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. She is the author of  The Greek Yogurt Kitchen: More Than 130 Delicious, Healthy Recipes for Every Meal of the Day .