A baby shower without games can quickly feel a little quiet. Games get guests talking, even if they don't know each other well yet, and give the parents-to-be an extra fond memory of the day. Below are fifteen ideas to choose from.
Classics
Have guests estimate the mother-to-be's bump size with a piece of string.
Hide baby-related words in a text for guests to find.
Collect baby name suggestions as people arrive; there are often hilarious ones among them.
Give each guest a clean diaper and markers to decorate it.
Interactive
Put together a quiz about the parents-to-be.
Have guests guess how many candies are in a jar.
Collect baby photos of the guests themselves in advance, then guess who's who.
Have everyone fill in a card with advice for the new parents, lovely to reread during those first sleepless nights.
Active
Hide small pacifiers around the house.
Have guests take turns emptying a baby bottle as quickly as possible, trickier than it sounds because of the small nipple.
Split guests into teams that wrap a pregnant bump in toilet paper.
Organize a "diaper relay" where guests have to change a diaper on a doll against the clock, blindfolded for extra chaos.
Calm and cozy
Have guests write a wish for the baby to keep in a baby book.
Set up a photo corner with props.
Have people take turns sharing a funny or sweet parenting story.
Alongside the games, it's nice to keep all the wishes, photos and advice from the party in one place. A wish page for the baby shower is ideal for that, and guests who couldn't make it can still leave a message. Pick two to four games for an average baby shower, more quickly becomes too much, and keep guests in mind who prefer not to be in the spotlight.
Frequently asked questions
How do you choose the right games for your group?
Look at the atmosphere you want to create and who is coming. A group that already knows each other well can handle more active games, while a mixed gathering of colleagues and family often responds better to calmer, low-pressure options.
What if some guests would rather not join in?
Don't force anyone. Make sure there are also quieter moments, like filling in a wish card, where everyone can contribute at their own pace without having to stand in the spotlight.
How long does a baby shower with games typically take?
Allow 15 to 20 minutes per game including the explanation. With three games and enough room for food and conversation, you quickly end up with an afternoon of two to three hours.
