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Everyone loves an escape room, right? The rush of adrenaline as time ticks down, the collaboration between teammates to solve clues, and the clever themes that guide the story are what make them so popular. But things get a little trickier when it comes to taking a group of kids to an escape room.
To avoid (most) meltdowns, fistfights, and all-out pandemonium, here are some of our top do’s and don’ts for kids’ escape rooms. Let’s do this!
Do’s for an Unforgettable Kids’ Escape Room
1. Choose a Theme Everyone Will Love
While there are some kids that love an intense adventure or a murder mystery, not everyone does. When it comes to escape rooms for kids, it might be better to lean into outer space or fantasy themes. Getting most kids on the same page can help things run smoother. You might even send a poll to kids and their parents with a few options to see where the themed rooms rank.
2. Eat Before the Game
Have you ever tried solving puzzles with a bunch of hangry kids? Yeah, let’s avoid that at all costs. Spare the tears and rage by stopping for lunch or dinner before the escape room. If you want a top-tier parenting hack, make sure the venue has food there. Everyone gets what food they want, and you don’t have to stress about traffic before check-in.
3. Pick a Spot with Additional Activities
Kids get bored. That’s just a fact. But, if you choose a venue with escape rooms and other activities, you can solve a few problems:
- If someone has a meltdown, you can find a different activity close by
- Parents can watch their other kids while doing something else
- If things go quicker than you expected, you’ve got more fun available
Look for venues with activities like bowling, arcade games, or VR goggles kids will have a blast with that allow you to sit down for.
4. Double-Check for Age-Appropriate Clues
Even if you book escape rooms for kids, it’s important to check what age they are meant for. Clues meant for an older age group can tank your party pretty fast.
Don’ts to Avoid Party Disasters
1. Scary or Horror-Themed Rooms
When it comes to horror-themed escape rooms, save yourself, your children, and your money until they’re older. These are fun options for teens and adults, but most children don’t do well with these types of rooms. While some kids may enjoy scary movies, living the experience is another story. Milder options make better escape rooms for kids.
2. Sending the Kids Alone
Kids are great problem-solvers, but having an adult with them in the escape room can make things run better. They can help when kids get distracted or stuck on something or mitigate arguments or tantrums. Make sure you choose someone who will help the kids have fun, not just do things for them.
It’s also a good idea to stick to the recommended group size. If there are too many people, the room can get crowded quickly.
3. Don’t Forget to Set Expectations
For many kids, this might be their first escape room. Take time beforehand to explain what an escape room is and what they should be doing there. You can teach them about working together and problem-solving. The escape room manager can also help with tips and suggestions.
4. Ditch Rushing the Day
Make sure you give yourself a good buffer before and after the escape room. Having plenty of time beforehand allows for travel time, bathroom stops, and food before your check-in time. Time afterward means you can enjoy other activities or talk about what they learned without having to rush out.
Find the Perfect Escape Room at Stars & Strikes!
Escape rooms can spark creativity, build teamwork, and create lasting memories for kids. Crafting the perfect escape room party can be a whole lot easier when you keep these do’s and don’ts in mind.Book your next party at Stars & Strikes, a kid-friendly venue where activities, food, and escape room fun fit all under one roof.
