We Took Our Toddlers to an NHL Game (and Survived to Tell the Tale)

Well, we did it! We took our kids to their first ever professional sporting event, an NHL hockey game. And guess what? It wasn’t a disaster. Even more? Everyone can’t wait to go back.

If I said my anxiety hasn’t been through the roof for weeks on end in anti-anticipation, I’d be lying. This was a big step, and yes, I was very bold (and maybe a little reckless) thinking that a 4 year old and a 2 year old would cooperate, sit still, behave, enjoy the experience and avoid the tears.

But realistically, all it took was a little mental prep and a little planning. Okay, a lot of planning. The fun part? The event was a surprise for my husband’s birthday, so every single detail had to be handled solo.

If you’re thinking about taking a toddler to a sporting event, movie, concert, or really any public outing where you don’t know how they’ll act (and maybe, like me, you bit the bullet and spent a small fortune you could have easily regretted), here are 5 tips that made our experience a positive one.

1. Practice Makes… Slightly Less Chaos

The week before the big game, I took the kids to watch my husband’s men’s league play. It was the perfect “training session.” We got excited about cheering, learned to stay seated during play, and danced our little hearts out during breaks.

Professional games are long, loud, and full of downtime where walking around isn’t an option, so helping your kids practice patience ahead of time is huge. If they can manage a small local game, they’ll be more ready for the real deal.

2. Research Like It’s Your Job

I know, who wants to call customer service anymore? Not me. I’m more of a “scroll the website and hope for the best” kind of girl. But this time, I actually picked up the phone, and I’m so glad I did.

Fan Services gave me all the info I needed: bag policies, what snacks were allowed, where the baby care centers were, and even where to find the sensory room! Yes, some arenas now offer sensory kits, stroller check, and lockers. It’s like they know parents are out here trying their best.

We brought small colouring books (with the markers attached), our own kid-sized ear protectors, and of course enough snacks to feed a small army. Knowing the rules ahead of time made getting through security a breeze.

3. Think Through Transportation

Depending on your city, public transit might sound like a good idea…until you’re standing in a packed train car holding two melting toddlers and a diaper bag the size of a carry-on.

For us, driving was the better choice. The car was familiar, the kids were comfortable, and we could stash all our extras without lugging them around. Plus, being able to make a quick trip back to the car for forgotten items (or a meltdown reset) was worth its weight in gold.

That said, if parking is impossible where you live, take the train. Just pack light, plan ahead, and lower your expectations.

4. Find Kid-Friendly Touchpoints

Both of my girls loved the music, lights, and energy of the crowd, but what really sealed the deal was when I arranged a mascot visit right to our seats! It ended up being the hit of the game and they can’t stop talking about it.

We sang along to the national anthem (which my 4 year old now plays on repeat at home between Taylor Swift tracks), danced between plays, and ate all the snacks. French fries? Sure. Ice cream? You earned it, kid. Sometimes a ‘yes day’ is the best survival tactic.

When they’re happy, you’re happy, and everyone around you probably is too.

5. Let Your Kids Lead the Way

This one took me the longest to accept, but once I did, the night went smoother. Arrive early, get settled, and go with the flow.

We watched warmups, took pictures, and ordered food to our seats (10/10 recommend). Potty breaks were unpredictable, but we aimed for intermissions. I packed spare clothes (because, toddlers) but we didn’t end up needing them.

If your kids get tired, let them rest. If they want to cheer, let them yell. It’s loud enough that no one will notice your 2 year old’s mini tantrum anyway. The jumbotron alone will buy you at least 20 minutes of entertainment (and no need to pack a tablet).

All in all, we had a successful first game as a family, and while we probably won’t do it again too soon (because, those ticket prices…ouch) it’s something we’ll never forget.

Next time, we’ll bring the fun home: a family ‘game night’ with jerseys, snacks, cheering, and maybe even standing for the anthem before the puck drops on our living room screen.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the seats, the snacks, or the score. It’s about seeing those little faces light up and realizing that maybe, just maybe, it was all worth it.

Have you taken your toddlers to a big public event? Tell me how it went!