Having twins is a wild ride, delivering double the joy (and of course, double the effort required) to an expectant family. The highs are bound to be high, like watching the pair grow and play together through every stage of childhood. And the lows are sure to leave you needing a solo vacation — imagine double diaper duty, double bedtime shushes, and double lunches to pack once school begins.
No matter the challenges ahead, we always aim to shower a pregnant mama with love (and helpful gear) prior to baby’s arrival. And if that mama is carrying twins, why not go all in on the theme? Following are five twin-centric games to play at a double-trouble baby shower. Keep in mind that collecting a few great prizes for game winners can add a bit of fun (and a sense of competition) to the party.
Game One: Don’t Say “Twins”
It’s awfully hard not to say “twins” at a baby shower intended to welcome twins, so this game keeps participants on their verbal toes. Place a visible clothespin on each guest as they arrive at the party, and tell them the only rule to this game: Don’t say “twins,” or someone who hears you can collect your clothespin as a “point.” Determine an ending time — say, two hours into the shower, or right before cake is served — and whoever has the most clothespins collected wins a prize.
Game Two: Sock Race
No matter your strategy, somehow, some way, baby socks always go missing. This game is a nod the new mama’s future. As the host, gather a collection of infant sock pairs, from plain to patterned, then mix them all up in a laundry basket. Ask guests to predict (and write down) how long it will take for the mother-to-be to match and fold all of the socks, then actually time the guest of honor to see how she fares. Award a prize to the guest with the closest time.
Game Three: Double the Cost
This one gets the math brain going. Prior to the party, collect about one dozen infant-related essentials, such as a pacifier, bib, jar of baby food, onesie, and pair of booties. Note the average cost of each item, then double that (since twins will require two), then add all the prices together and record your final sum. At the shower, place your items on display and give guests an empty “receipt” to fill out. They guess the cost of each item, double it, then calculate the total bill of a twin-related shopping trip. The guest closest to your pre-recorded sum wins a prize.
Game Four: The Truth About Twins
Since most of us don’t give birth to twins and are not twins ourselves, there is plenty we don’t know about them; this game provides a little lesson on the subject. Create or buy a “True or False” list all about twins. Statements might include “Identical twins have the same fingerprints” or “The origin of the word ‘twin’ is Latin,” for example. At the shower, give each guest a list of these statements and allow them three minutes to circle T or F next to each one, without conferring with one another. The guest with the most correct answers wins!
Game Five: The Pair Predicament
Here’s one more timed game that’s simple, fast, and fun. Provide each guest with a paper and pencil, then tell them they have exactly five minutes to write down as many things as they can that come in pairs. The host can even inspire the group by listing off a couple freebies, like “gloves” and “eyes.” Start the timer, watch your guests go, then have them count up the total once the buzzer sounds. The winner can read their entire list, delighting others with their creative responses. Give them a prize for working so hard — it’s a party, after all!
