What To Do At A Sleepover

Classic Sleepover Games That Still Hold Up

Some things just never go out of style. And when it comes to sleepovers, the classics are still some of the best. If you’re looking for simple ways to get the giggles going fast, you can’t go wrong with these old-school faves.

Here’s what always works at my house:

• Would You Rather? Kids love making weird choices. The grosser or sillier, the better.
• Charades or Heads Up: It gets everyone moving and laughing. You don’t need any supplies.
• Truth or Dare: Keep it age-appropriate, and make sure there’s a no-pressure rule.
• Flashlight Tag: If it’s safe and dark, it adds just the right amount of excitement.
• Freeze Dance: Crank up the playlist and let them get their energy out before winding down.

Want something that doesn’t require being “on” the whole time? Try:

• Would You Rather cards in a jar
• Slumber party bingo with silly challenges
• “Nail Polish Spin the Bottle” where each spin means a different color

These games keep things fun and give the night some structure without being too strict. Kids get to be silly, show off, and take turns being in the spotlight—without it feeling forced.

When you’re wondering what to do at a sleepover and you’re short on time or energy, just pick one of these. They take five minutes to explain and work for almost any age. Plus, most of them don’t need anything but a few household items and a group ready to laugh.

Easy Activities That Don’t Need A Craft Store Run

Let’s be honest: nobody wants to spend $50 prepping for a sleepover. The good news? You don’t have to. Some of the best sleepover activities come from stuff you already have around the house.

Here are my go-to ideas when I don’t want to run to the store:

• Make-your-own popcorn bar: Set out plain popcorn and bowls of toppings like chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, cinnamon sugar, or cheese powder.
• Pillowcase decorating: Use fabric markers or tie-dye kits if you have them.
• Homemade facials: Mix yogurt and honey or mashed avocado and oats. Keep it chill and low-key.
• Cardboard box forts: If you’ve got boxes from deliveries, kids love turning them into castles or clubs.
• Design-your-own T-shirts (just grab some plain ones if you have them on hand)

You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy setup. Just a few basic supplies and kids will run with it. The trick is keeping it open-ended. Let them be the boss of their own creations.

You can also try:

• Old-school friendship bracelets
• Sticker trading or collection books
• Washable tattoos and stamp markers

When I think about what to do at a sleepover that doesn’t cost much or make a giant mess, this is my go-to list. It’s creative, hands-on, and flexible. Plus, you’ll probably find them giggling in the corner, completely absorbed in what they’re making.

Food Ideas That Go Beyond Ordering Pizza from Pizza Hut

Pizza is easy. And don’t get me wrong—it’s still a solid choice. But if you want to mix things up a bit, sleepover food can be fun and interactive. It’s not about making everything from scratch. It’s about turning food into part of the night.

Try these build-your-own ideas:

• Taco bar: Keep toppings simple. Even just meat, cheese, and chips turns into a win.
• DIY mini pizzas: English muffins or pita bread make it fast. Each kid makes their own.
• Sundae station: Bowls of sprinkles, syrup, and crushed cookies go a long way.
• Breakfast-for-dinner: Pancakes with whipped cream and fruit? Yes, please.
• Snack mix station: Pretzels, cereal, gummies, and chocolate chips let everyone get creative.

If you want something cozy for late-night, go for:

• Microwave mug cakes: Fast, easy, and fun to decorate.
• Hot chocolate bar: Marshmallows, sprinkles, and whipped cream make it feel special.

Kids love food they can build or decorate themselves. It turns a snack into an activity—and buys you a few peaceful minutes while they focus.

So if you’re brainstorming what to do at a sleepover that keeps tummies happy and hands busy, lean into the food fun. Let them play with their snacks, and don’t worry about it being picture-perfect. They’ll remember the whipped cream mustache, not whether you used real napkins.

Chill Time Ideas When You Need a Breather

There comes a point in every sleepover where everyone needs to settle down. The sugar wears off. The energy drops. And suddenly, the living room looks like a laundry pile with legs. This is the moment to shift gears.

Here’s how I slow things down without killing the fun:

• Movie marathon: Let them vote. Go with a theme (princesses, superheroes, 90s classics).
• Cozy story time: For younger kids, read something silly or spooky with a flashlight.
• Coloring books and gel pens: Older kids still love it—trust me.
• Low-key crafting: Things like paint-by-number kits, shrink art, or decorating notebooks.
• Puzzle or board games: Especially good when some kids are done being wild and others aren’t.

This is also when I like to bring out:

• Blankets, cozy socks, and a pile of pillows
• Background music or nature sounds on a speaker
• Calming snacks like fruit or graham crackers

If someone’s feeling a little homesick or left out, this is when you gently pull them in. A quiet, chill activity gives them something to do without the pressure of being the loudest or funniest in the room.

When I think about what to do at a sleepover that helps wind things down, it’s all about cozy comfort. Less noise, more connection. It doesn’t have to be deep or serious. Just soft and easy. Like bedtime with a twist.

What to Do at a Sleepover That Make It Feel Special

Every sleepover needs a little moment. Something small that makes it feel unforgettable. These aren’t big gestures—they’re just thoughtful touches that feel a little different.

Here’s what works like a charm:

• DIY photo booth: Hang up a sheet and add silly props (hats, glasses, boas, printouts)
• Name tags for sleeping bags: It sounds silly, but they love claiming a “spot”
• Midnight surprise snack: Bring out warm cookies after lights out. Watch them lose their minds.
• Custom playlists: Let each kid add a few songs. Play it during dinner or while getting ready for bed.
• Compliment jar: Each person writes a kind note to everyone else. Read them in the morning.

You can also try:

• Making friendship awards or certificates
• Movie “tickets” with popcorn buckets
• A printed scavenger hunt around the house (or even just the living room)

None of this has to be fancy. It just has to feel intentional. The idea is to add a little sparkle—without glitter. Trust me, they’ll talk about the midnight cookies for months.

If you’re stuck on what to do at a sleepover that feels fresh, give one of these a try. It’s not about being the best host. It’s about creating a little magic with things you already have.

Sleepover Ideas Just for Tweens and Teens

Sleepovers change once the kids hit those in-between years. Suddenly, they’re too cool for glitter crafts but not too cool for matching pajamas and inside jokes. If you’re hosting tweens or teens, the goal shifts a bit. You’re not just entertaining them—you’re giving them space to be themselves without feeling watched.

Here’s what works for that age group:

• Spa night: Face masks, nail polish, cucumbers on the eyes. It’s cheesy, and they love every second of it.
• YouTube karaoke: They’ll roll their eyes and then sing with everything they’ve got.
• Make-your-own lip balm or sugar scrub: Easy DIY, and they’ll actually use it.
• “Nailed It” baking challenge: Give them ingredients, show them a cake, and let the chaos begin.
• TikTok dance tutorial corner: Yes, they’ll film themselves. No, you don’t need to join.

And when they want downtime:

• Let them scroll, text, or just hang
• Give them snacks and a comfy space
• Don’t hover—but do listen from the kitchen

If you’re trying to figure out what to do at a sleepover for tweens or teens, don’t overthink it. They want fun, but they also want freedom. Give them just enough to get started, then let them take it from there.

One trick I’ve learned? Have a “cool” older cousin or sibling join for part of the night. It instantly takes the vibe from “mom-planned” to “actually fun.” And if all else fails, just bring out the chocolate. Works every time.

Backup Plans for When Things Get Weird

Let’s be real. Not every sleepover goes off without a hiccup. Someone gets cranky. Another misses home. And there’s always that moment when the energy shifts and you can feel a meltdown brewing. It’s normal. The trick is being ready without making a big deal about it.

Here’s what I keep in my back pocket:

• Homesick kid? Quietly offer to text mom. Let them help decide what to do.
• Mood tanking? Suggest a calm group activity, like watching a movie or doing nails.
• Someone gets left out? Pull them aside to help you “secretly” prep a snack or surprise.
• Too much energy at bedtime? Try a five-minute “quiet game” with a prize at the end.

Also helpful:

• A parent-only zone for a kid who just needs space
• A stack of cozy blankets and “sleepover stuffed animals”
• Calming music or low lights to reset the mood

Sometimes the best thing you can do is just stay flexible. Kids pick up on your energy. If you’re calm and chill, they’ll usually follow your lead.

When I think about what to do at a sleepover when things go sideways, it’s not about fixing everything. It’s about being the steady, safe one in the room. Even when the popcorn’s on the ceiling and someone’s crying because they lost a sock (yes, it happens). Grace, patience, and snacks go a long way.