top of page

Not every child (or parent) is ready for the full sleepover experience, but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the fun! Enter the sleep-under: a magical evening that includes all the best parts of a sleepover—without the actual sleepover.



Perfect for younger kids, first-timers, or families with busy schedules, a sleep-under lets kids enjoy games, snacks, and bonding time, all while ensuring everyone sleeps in their own bed at the end of the night.


What Makes a Sleep-Under Special?


A sleep-under typically takes place during the early evening, lasting about 3-4 hours. Guests arrive in pajamas, bringing along their favorite blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals to create that cozy slumber-party vibe. The night is packed with activities, laughter, and yummy treats, ending with a clear pickup time for parents.


7 Fun Activities for the Perfect Sleep-Under


1. Backyard Movie Night

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor theater! Hang up a white sheet or use a portable projector screen, set out blankets and pillows, and let the kids enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars.


  • Pro Tip: Serve popcorn in individual cups, and add glow sticks for a magical nighttime touch.


Comic book themed popcorn holders (Amazon)
Comic book themed popcorn holders (Amazon)

2. DIY Pizza Party


Let the kids create their own mini pizzas! Provide individual pizza doughs or flatbreads, along with toppings like cheese, pepperoni, veggies, and sauce. Bake them in the oven or on the grill for a quick and fun dinner.


Set of pizza trays (Amazon)
Set of pizza trays (Amazon)

3. Craft Corner: Design Your Own Pillowcase


Set up a craft station where kids can decorate pillowcases with fabric markers or stencils. It’s a creative activity that doubles as a personalized keepsake!



4. Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party


Turn down the lights, hand out glow sticks, and play an upbeat playlist for a glow-in-the-dark dance party. You can even include a limbo stick or freeze-dance games to keep the energy high.


Neon glow party kit ( Amazon)
Neon glow party kit ( Amazon)

5. DIY Ice Cream Sundae Bar


Who doesn’t love dessert? Set up a sundae bar with vanilla and chocolate ice cream, plus a variety of toppings like sprinkles, whipped cream, fruit, chocolate syrup, and candy. Let each guest create their own masterpiece.


Hooray Ice Cream Cups (Amazon)
Hooray Ice Cream Cups (Amazon)

6. Pajama Fashion Show


Kids can show off their coziest pajamas in a fun fashion show. Set up a “runway” with string lights, play some upbeat music, and let them strut their stuff! Bonus points if they use props like slippers or stuffed animals.


7. Storytime with Flashlights


As the evening winds down, gather everyone in a cozy corner with blankets and pillows for a flashlight-lit storytime. Let kids take turns reading short stories or sharing their favorite books. For added fun, parents can join in to tell a silly or spooky (but not too scary!) tale.


Why Choose a Sleep-Under?


  • Easier for Parents: No late-night wake-ups or homesick kiddos.

  • Perfect for First-Timers: Gives kids a taste of independence in a familiar and structured way.

  • No Sleepover Drama: Everyone gets to enjoy the fun but still sleeps comfortably at home.

  • Great for All Ages: Younger kids feel included, and older kids appreciate the creative activities.


The sleep-under is a fun and flexible way to bring the magic of a sleepover to life without the overnight commitment. With cozy vibes, creative activities, and plenty of giggles, it’s a win for both kids and parents!




Follow Epic Sleepover for more slumber party ideas and inspiration. Discover exciting sleepover and pajama party ideas and themes. Sign up for our email list to get the latest trends sent directly to your inbox! Also, don’t forget to follow us on social media and say hello!


Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, this post contains affiliate links which means I may earn from qualified purchases made through our links. Thank you for your support.


Sleepover parties are a rite of passage, a blend of giggles, pillow fights, and midnight snacks that leave lasting memories. But when is the "right age" to host one? At Epic Sleepover, we've seen it all—from five-year-olds experiencing their first night away from home to fifty-somethings celebrating milestone birthdays in pajama party style.


It’s All About the Kid (and the Family)


The ideal age for a sleepover party isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Every child develops at their own pace, and family dynamics play a big role in determining readiness. Some kids are ready to dive into the fun as young as five, while others might not feel comfortable until their later childhood years—or even beyond!


Double Digit Balloons
Double Digit Balloons

At Epic Sleepover, most of our birthday honorees are in the sweet spot: 10 years old. There’s something special about that first double-digit birthday that makes it perfect for an epic sleepover bash. Turning ten marks the transition from the "little kid" years to the big leagues, and kids want to celebrate in style before that next big milestone—the teenage years.


Why the Double Digits Are Perfect for Sleepovers


  1. Increased Independence: By age 10, kids are usually ready for the challenge of staying up late (or at least trying) and being away from their parents for a night.

  2. Social Confidence: Friendships are solidifying, and kids love the idea of bonding with their crew in a fun, relaxed setting.

  3. Fun Themes & Activities: At this age, party themes can be more creative and interactive, from movie marathons to DIY crafts or gaming nights.

  4. Memories to Treasure: These sleepovers become a cornerstone of their childhood, providing stories and inside jokes they'll cherish forever.



Ultimately, the best age for a sleepover party is when the guest of honor is excited and ready for the adventure. Whether you’re hosting a five-year-old’s first night away, a 10-year-old’s double-digit debut, or an adult’s nostalgic bash, sleepovers are about celebrating milestones, fostering friendships, and creating unforgettable memories.


50th Birthday Cake
50th Birthday Cake

So, what’s the perfect age for a sleepover party? The answer lies in the heart of the guest of honor—and that’s the magic of it all.



Follow Epic Sleepover for more slumber party ideas and inspiration. Discover exciting sleepover and pajama party ideas and themes. Sign up for our email list to get the latest trends sent directly to your inbox! Also, don’t forget to follow us on social media and say hello!


Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, this post contains affiliate links which means I may earn from qualified purchases made through our links. Thank you for your support.


Sleepovers are the ultimate opportunity for fun, bonding, and unforgettable memories. Here are 50 fun activities tailored to different age groups to ensure everyone has a blast at your next sleepover party!



For Kids Ages 7-9: Whimsical Adventures and Playful Fun


Kids in this age group thrive on creativity and active play. Here are 50 ideas to keep them entertained:


  1. DIY Pillowcase Painting

  2. Make-Your-Own Pizza Night

  3. Fort Building Contest

  4. Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party

  5. Storytime with Flashlights

  6. Stuffed Animal Fashion Show

  7. Board Games (Candy Land, Chutes & Ladders)

  8. Cookie Decorating

  9. Treasure Hunt (indoors or outdoors)

  10. Karaoke Sing-Off

  11. Face Painting

  12. Movie Night with Popcorn

  13. DIY Friendship Bracelets

  14. Puzzle Race Challenge

  15. Create Your Own Mini Play or Skit

  16. Freeze Dance

  17. Coloring Contest

  18. Balloon Volleyball

  19. Obstacle Course

  20. Slumber Party Bingo

  21. Pin the Tail on the Donkey

  22. DIY Slime Station

  23. Mini Talent Show

  24. Scavenger Hunt

  25. Bedtime Yoga

  26. Make Paper Airplanes and Have a Contest

  27. Play-Doh Sculpting Contest

  28. Sing-Along Storytelling

  29. Guess That Sound Game

  30. Photo Booth with Fun Props

  31. Cupcake Wars

  32. Sticker Art

  33. Pass the Parcel

  34. DIY Masks

  35. Balloon Animals

  36. Make Your Own Mini Pizzas

  37. Animal Charades

  38. Pop-Up Card Crafts

  39. Mini Fashion Show

  40. Stuffed Animal Sleepover Setup

  41. Simon Says

  42. Guess That Disney Song

  43. Magic Tricks Show and Tell

  44. DIY Lava Lamp Science Experiment

  45. Painting Rocks

  46. Glow Stick Hide-and-Seek

  47. Indoor Bowling

  48. Guess That Animal Game

  49. Sticker or Temporary Tattoo Station

  50. Teddy Bear Picnic



For Kids Ages 9-11: Active and Imaginative Games


At this age, kids enjoy activities that are a mix of creative and active fun with a touch of independence.


  1. DIY Tie-Dye Shirts

  2. Popcorn and Movie Marathon

  3. Make-Your-Own Sundae Bar

  4. Mad Libs or Story Writing Contest

  5. Capture the Flag (indoor or outdoor)

  6. DIY Bath Bombs

  7. Truth or Dare (Age-Appropriate)

  8. Mini Manicure Station

  9. Indoor Camping Setup

  10. Cupcake Decorating Contest

  11. Spa Night (Face Masks and Nail Painting)

  12. Scavenger Hunt with Clues

  13. Charades

  14. Painting Canvas Art

  15. Glow-in-the-Dark Tag

  16. DIY Lip Balm Station

  17. Build Your Own Snack Mix

  18. Pajama Fashion Show

  19. Make Your Own Pizza Party

  20. Dance-Off

  21. Create a Vision Board

  22. LEGO Building Contest

  23. Lip-Sync Battle

  24. Photo Booth Selfies

  25. DIY Scrunchies

  26. Glow Stick Pool Party (if you have a pool)

  27. Karaoke Party

  28. Jigsaw Puzzle Challenge

  29. DIY Journaling

  30. Make Friendship Necklaces

  31. Origami Workshop

  32. Guess That Song Challenge

  33. Minute-to-Win-It Games

  34. DIY Candy Necklaces

  35. Stargazing (if outdoors)

  36. Board Games (Clue, Monopoly, Catan)

  37. DIY Birdhouse Painting

  38. Potato Sack Races

  39. Glow Stick Ring Toss

  40. Make a "Sleepover Playlist" Together

  41. Craft Your Own Comic Book

  42. Trivia Night

  43. Play Would You Rather?

  44. Obstacle Course (DIY)

  45. Cup Stacking Games

  46. Bake Brownies Together

  47. Tell Ghost Stories with Flashlights

  48. Write a Story Together

  49. Name That Movie Challenge

  50. Treasure Map Adventure



For Teens Ages 11-13: Cool and Creative Hangouts


Teens in this group love activities that combine fun, creativity, and independence with a hint of sophistication.


  1. DIY Nail Art Party

  2. Make-Your-Own Mocktails

  3. Decorate Tote Bags

  4. DIY Pizza Night

  5. Photo Shoot with Creative Props

  6. Lip-Sync Battle

  7. Make Personalized Journals

  8. Pancake Bar for Dinner

  9. Create TikTok Videos Together

  10. Movie Marathon (Pick a Series)

  11. DIY Bath Salts or Body Scrubs

  12. Glow-in-the-Dark Hide-and-Seek

  13. Make Friendship Anklets

  14. Play Jackbox Party Games

  15. Create a Custom Playlist

  16. Outdoor Movie Night (if weather permits)

  17. DIY Vision Boards

  18. Build a Blanket Fort Lounge

  19. Make Gourmet Popcorn Flavors

  20. Create Mini Scrapbooks

  21. Cook a Simple Dinner Together

  22. Photo Collage Craft

  23. Board Games (Catan, Ticket to Ride)

  24. DIY Tie-Dye Hoodies or Shirts

  25. Stargazing with Blankets

  26. Paint Pottery

  27. Spa Night with DIY Masks

  28. Escape Room Game (at home)

  29. Truth or Dare

  30. Outdoor Night Hike with Flashlights

  31. Make Smoothie Bowls

  32. Design T-Shirts

  33. Capture the Flag (Glow Sticks)

  34. Learn a New Dance

  35. Ice Cream Sundae Bar

  36. Host a Fashion Show

  37. Paint by Numbers

  38. Talent Show

  39. Make Your Own Slime or Stress Balls

  40. Create a Lip Balm or Candle Station

  41. Decorate Phone Cases

  42. Nail Polish Spin Challenge

  43. Write and Perform a Skit

  44. Learn Simple Yoga Poses

  45. Play 20 Questions

  46. Create a Photo Scrapbook

  47. Host a Trivia Night

  48. DIY Candle Making

  49. Make Dreamcatchers

  50. End the Night with a Gratitude Circle


With these age-appropriate activities, your sleepover party will be filled with fun, creativity, and plenty of laughs. The key is to match the activities to the group’s energy and interests to create unforgettable memories!



Follow Epic Sleepover for more slumber party ideas and inspiration. Discover exciting sleepover and pajama party ideas and themes. Sign up for our email list to get the latest trends sent directly to your inbox! Also, don’t forget to follow us on social media and say hello!


Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, this post contains affiliate links which means I may earn from qualified purchases made through our links. Thank you for your support.


Epic Sleepover Blog

Balloons

Sleepover Planning Tips
Straight to Your Inbox

Thanks for submitting!

© 2020 by Epic Sleepover LLC

bottom of page