Most people would say they want to be hospitable. They want to invite people into their homes and be a welcoming host.

However, it’s easy to make excuses. It’s easy to NOT practice hospitality. Our homes aren’t perfect. Our schedules are busy, and as young moms, our plates are full. Hosting can feel daunting, and we wonder if it’s even possible to host like we want to.

But I think it is – at least in most cases.

I think it’s possible to invite people over, make them feel welcome, and experience true friendship in this busy season of life.

It’s possible, and it’s so important we do. After all, we Moms need each other. We need camaraderie. We need support. We need someone who will listen to our stuff and say, “Me too.” We need a friend who will pray for us, make us laugh, and offer us a cup of coffee.

We need each other.

So let’s be brave and invite each other into our homes, because we can’t afford to do otherwise.

If you are feeling nervous or overwhelmed about this type of hospitality, I want to offer 10 ideas that may be helpful.

Here are 10 Tips for Hosting as a Young Mom.

10 Hosting Tips

1. Just do it.

The first tip is to simply: Do it. If you want to host and reasonably can, go for it. Invite that person that you’ve been thinking you should invite over…over. I know it can feel scary. I know it can be awkward, but I think the biggest hurdle in hospitality is actually taking the first step.

If we can get over this hang up and actually invite people into our homes, I think the rest often falls into place. The truth is you don’t need a menu or a clean house or most of the rest of this list to practice hospitality. You can have a messy home, no food and a welcoming heart. You can be used by God regardless of all the extras.

So take these ideas as simply that: ideas. Pressure’s off.

2. Plan your menu.

Whether you’re having a friend for coffee, a family for dinner, or a guest for the weekend, it’s important to plan your menu. What will you all eat? While food isn’t everything when it comes to hosting, it is really important. The meal or snack doesn’t have to be elaborate, but if you have the time, why not make a plan? You can make a menu and shopping list and prepare ahead of time for your guests…which brings us to the next tip…

3. Prep ahead.

Prepare what you can ahead of time. This could mean buying extra groceries. It could be baking the coffee cake. You might cut trays of veggies or get the meat out to thaw the day before.

However it makes sense to prepare, do that. It will make the day you host run so much smoother if you do some tasks ahead of time. You don’t need to leave everything until last minute. You’ll be happy you were prepared.

4. Set your kids up for success.

Part of getting ready for guests is getting your kids ready for them. Depending on their ages and personalities, they will need different things. They may need a solid nap beforehand. They may need some down time or outside play. They might need you to go over what’s expected of them. Perhaps they can pitch in with some “getting ready” tasks.

You know your kids best, so think about how to set them up well for the visit. You can have the house sparkly clean, but if your kids are miserable, it won’t be enjoyable for anyone. Give them what they need to thrive. Prioritize it.

5. Get yourself ready.

In addition to getting your kids ready, get yourself ready also. Do your hair. Change out of the shirt with spit-up all over the front. Feel pulled together, so that you can show up and connect with your guests.

6. Reset your space.

Get your space tidy. The level of cleanliness will be different for everyone. The amount you choose to tidy is up to you. But at least do a quick run-through. You might also want to make sure your bathroom is ready for use. Replace the hand towel. Check that you have enough hand soap.

Reset the areas where your guests will be so that it feels calm and inviting.

7. Have kids’ toys available.

If you are having kids over, make sure there are toys readily available for them. Part of making your guest feel at home is making their kids feel at home too.

8. Make them feel welcome.

When your friends arrive, welcome them. Show enthusiasm that they are here, and greet them with a smile. Ask them how they are. Greet their kids too. Be warm. Be gracious.

9. Ditch perfection.

Say goodbye to perfection.

Remember that hospitality is not having a perfectly tidy home, perfectly happy kids, or a perfectly planned menu. All of these things can flop. Plans can go awry.

And you can still welcome others.

Because hospitality isn’t about us.

It’s about Christ. It’s about others.

10. Connect.

Listen. Share honestly. Connect.

Remember that hospitality is about love. It’s about connecting with others and serving them as Christ served us.

Don’t miss out on building relationships with others because you’re too busy with the secondary things. Enjoy the fellowship God made us to experience. It is a gift.

Hosting is a blessing to others, but it can also bring us great joy.

Proverbs 11:25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

While some seasons may not allow it, I encourage you to, when you can, open your home to others. Friendships will be built. You will be encouraged, and God will be glorified as you show others His love.

Romans 15:7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

FAQ about Hosting With Kids

1. What are the most important ways to make kids feel welcome in a new place?

Depending on the kid, they may need different things. Some may enjoy more interaction and activity. Some may just want to stick close to their parents. But no matter their temperament, have some toys and a snack available. Greet them warmly, and then follow the parent’s lead. They know their child best.

2. How do I know what to cook for my guests?

This will depend on who you’re having over. Begin by asking them if they have any allergies or food preferences.

If they have children, opt for kid-friendly meals and/or dishes wherein kids can pick and choose what they like. Things like taco salad, burgers, or pancakes are all very versatile.

If you don’t know them well, you could break the ice by choosing a meal that has an activity with it. Think a wiener roast, build your own pizzas, or charcuterie.

If you are having an older couple, perhaps something more classic like meat and potatoes would be appreciated.

Know your audience, and then plan according to what’s realistic for you.