Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or looking for ways to spend a rainy afternoon at home, a tea party is a wonderful activity for all ages. Not only is teatime delicious, it also serves up many benefits for children and their families. Here are the top reasons we love family tea parties.
1. Enjoy screen-free family time
As technology takes on a bigger role in our daily lives, families are faced with new challenges. How can we reduce screen time? How can we connect when we're glued to separate devices? Teatime brings everyone together without the need for electronics (unless you use an electric kettle).
2. Spark creativity
Children have BIG imaginations. Not only is this an enjoyable part of childhood, but also an essential part of development. Creative activities—like crafts and pretend play—help practice problem solving, boost confidence, and express emotions. All in all, creativity goes a long way toward teaching real-life skills.
3. Share and create memories
While teatime treats are delightful, story time may be the best complement to tea. Sharing family stories, memories from “when I was your age,” and even daily happenings brings families closer together. One day, your children may even tell stories of their tea parties.
4. Develop motor function
Fine-tuning motor skills takes LOTS of practice. Fortunately, there's plenty to be had at the table. Younger children benefit from handling cups and treats, which help with hand-eye coordination and muscle development. Older children may be ready to try their hand at pouring tea or juice (though we recommend adults handle the kettle).
5. Make it fun to learn manners
Teatime presents a unique opportunity to practice table manners in a playful setting. A fancy tea party is the perfect place to rehearse “please,” “thank you,” and other polite behaviors. Many guests even get excited to show off their manners during pretend play.
6. Build confidence through trust
Practicing care with the tea set helps children learn how to handle nice things with confidence. Trusting them to help with other tasks can also create a sense of pride and responsibility, whether preparing snacks, serving guests, or simply cleaning up.
7. Improve social skills
Sharing a table means sharing everything on it. Teatime reminds everyone to think of others by asking questions like “Would you like some tea?” “More sugar?” Sharing attention is also important. By taking turns talking, kids practice patience and active listening.
8. Learn appreciation for meal preparation
Taking the time to prepare snacks and drinks together helps children understand the effort and love put into a meal. Not only that, but it also empowers them to nourish their bodies.
9. Open young minds to different cultures
Around the world people, people enjoy unique teas and traditions. Exploring these at home encourages kids to try new things, appreciate different cultures, and learn geography. Families may even find their own traditions along the way.
10. Slow down the day
The pace of everyday life can leave adults as overstimulated as toddlers in an airport. Teatime creates space to put the day on pause and relax together as a family. A calming cuppa tea can help everyone rebalance and remember what matters most.