New Year’s Eve used to be fun…and then you had kids. Now, the thought of trekking across town to spend a week’s worth of grocery money partying with strangers whom you will later fight for cabs just doesn’t seem so festive. Besides, it’s not like you can find a babysitter, anyway.

So what if you can’t leave the house without the kids? Stay home and have an amazing New Year’s Eve with them instead.

To do a family New Year’s Eve party right, consider hiring a babysitter. Yes, we know your regular sitter was booked months ago, but you’re going to be home anyway – a responsible tween is a perfectly suitable (and much cheaper) option. Let your underage child-minder entertain the kiddos – emphasis on the plural. Inviting other children – and their parents – gives everyone a chance to socialize: kids party in one room, adults party in another, and a good time is had by all.

Work with your children to pick your favourites from the following activities, and decide which you’ll do with peers and which you’ll do together. When the big night comes, be sure to gather everyone for the final countdown and a sparkling toast of age-appropriate beverages.