Tips from your preschool for Family friendly Mardi Gras Parades and More

Mardi Gras is a special time of the year, it’s a holiday that Louisianans grow up celebrating.

This season is not just for adults. Sharing the joy of carnival time with your child can be so rewarding.

Seeing the joy on their face when they catch beads and treats from parade floats to eating king cake and teaching them to watch out for the plastic baby inside, traditions are so important for children and their families.

Head on down to the Mardi Gras

Parades are a fun way to get into the carnival spirit.

Make sure you know where you are going and the parade route, and always check that the parade is family-friendly.

Key safety at parades:

• Make sure your children know not to run out to pick up beads or things that drop.
• Remind your crew not to put anything into their mouth, including any candy or food, until, like Halloween, the parent has inspected it.
• Hand sanitizer is a must, along with an empty bag for all those throws.

Mardi Gras activities that you can do at home

What to do at home to celebrate..the list is endless.
Here are a few suggestions to make the most of this holiday:

• Eat a king cake– Everyone has their personal favorites check your local bakery or grocery store!
• Make a King cake– A local mom group has this fun one that uses crescent rolls.
• Decorate a Mardi Gras mask– here is a template, or create your own!
• Dance party with some fun Mardi Gras tunes– get into the carnival mood with Mardi Gras Mambo and so many others.
• Learn more about Fat Tuesday and the Traditions– there is so much information and books explaining all of the traditions.

Most importantly, have fun with these traditions and make them your own.

Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)