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Put the Kids to Bed Early and Enjoy Your Drink: Netflix Unveils Fun NYE Countdowns
If you’re looking for a kid-free New Year’s Eve celebration but don’t want to shell out for a babysitter, Netflix has a delightful solution for you. The streaming giant has introduced a series of charming kid-friendly New Year’s Eve countdowns, allowing you to welcome 2016 well before the clock strikes twelve.
Each countdown lasts about three minutes and features beloved characters like the Care Bears, Inspector Gadget, Mr. Peabody and Sherman, and King Julien from All Hail King Julien. Simply let your little ones choose their favorite character, and you can celebrate the new year at 10, 9, or even 8 p.m. Once the kids are tucked in bed, you can kick back with your favorite drinks and adult shows, enjoying some much-needed peaceful time.
Last year, Netflix provided one countdown for kids, but they’ve expanded their offerings this year based on a survey revealing that nearly half of U.S. parents would rather celebrate with their children and have them in bed by 9 p.m. or earlier. In fact, many parents, around 41 percent, rely on creative strategies like these countdowns to usher their kids off to bed at a reasonable hour. Netflix has really stepped in to make our lives easier; it’s like they’re giving us a hand in our little “white lies”!
While kids might wish to stay up late to join in the festivities, the truth is most won’t make it to midnight. Honestly, many adults struggle to stay awake until then, myself included—I’m usually ready to call it a night by 10. These Netflix countdowns offer a playful way for kids to partake in the New Year’s excitement, while also providing parents with a moment of tranquility before they all drift off to dreamland. Plus, just look at how adorable these characters are!
As a parent, I might be labeled as strict, but my kids will definitely be in bed by eight this New Year’s Eve. They’re both under five, and I see no benefit in letting them stay up late, only to have to deal with overtired little ones. Thankfully, I can easily whip out some party hats and noisemakers from the dollar store early in the evening and use Netflix to move the celebration forward a few hours.
Someday, my kids will be able to stay up until midnight without turning into sleepy pumpkins. Until then, I’m grateful for technology that helps make our New Year’s Eve smoother. If you’re also navigating parenthood and looking for more tips, check out this helpful resource on family-building options.
So here’s to a joyful and relaxing New Year’s Eve, filled with laughter, love, and a little bit of creativity!