Eight of the best things to do with kids on New Year's Eve

As 2017 draws to a close and we welcome in 2018, you might feel yourself at loss to how to celebrate with your little ones. 

While it might seem like a good idea to let them stuff themselves with sweets and stay up till all hours, you know you'll be paying for it the next day (especially if mummy or daddy is also nursing a hangover). 

Why not try something a bit different this New Year's? It is the time for resolutions after all! 

1. Get out and about

Hike, ice skate, go to the park. Wrap up and get out and about. Not only will a good dose of fresh air tire the little ones out but the grown-ups might feel a bit better trying to burn off that Christmas splurge! 

2. Move midnight up a bit

An especially handy trick if you have very young children. Pick a time and set off an alarm to welcome in the new year at a reasonable bedtime. For slightly older kids, have them pick a time zone to celebrate the new year and theme your night around that country. Our favourites are: Beijing, 4pm, Moscow, 9 pm, New Dehili, 6.30 pm, Cape Town, 10 pm. 

3. Have a few mocktails 

Stock up on the juices, fizzies, fruit, twisty straws and mini umbrellas and whip up a load of virgin cocktails 

4. New Year piñata

Mimic the Times Square midnight ball drop and get a disco ball piñata! 

5. Make your own sundae bar 

Set out bowls of all those left over goodies and let them create their own deluxe desserts 

6. Get crafty 

Round up photos from some of the highlights of the year and have everyone add the best bits to their own scrapbooks. Perfect for reminiscing about the year that's about to end 

7. Dress up party

Get your glad rags on and fill a dress-up box full of old shirts and dresses. Add some funny hats and accessories and ring in the New Year in style! 

8. Karaoke party

Got the next Mariah Carey in the house? Let them show off their skills with a karaoke party! 

Happy New Year!