NFL Game Day Guide: Taking Little Ones to Their First Football Game

What to Pack | Getting to the Stadium | Entering & Admission | During the Game | Getting Home

With the right gameplan, bringing a young football fan to their first game can be childs’ play. From the loud cheers and stadium sounds to the concessions that just don’t cut it for your picky eater, the unexpected elements of a live football experience can lead to anything. But worry not. After snagging NFL tickets for you and the kids, find some helpful tips for taking your little ones to the big game below.

Read more: NFL Season Frequently Asked Questions

What to Pack

NFL stadiums are full of amenities for fans of all ages, but it’s still a good idea to bring a little bit of home just in case. What’s the item you know the child can never leave the house without? Along with basic essentials, pack things to keep your first-time fan comfortable throughout the day, provided they are included on the venue’s list of permitted items. Bag policies vary by location, though clear bags smaller than 12” x 6’ x 12” are largely approved for entry.

Don’t count yourself out, either. Kids come first, but as their parent or legal guardian, your personal prep could be just crucial. Make sure you have everything you need with our NFL game day guide for adults.

Snacks

Can’t tell if your kid is making a really good game face or about to throw a tantrum? Best to bring out the snacks. Although football stadiums are sure to offer kids’ menu favorites like chicken fingers and fries, most venues also allow small snacks for babies and toddlers. There’s no need to break out the lunchbox, but some fruit, cookies or crackers in a sealed plastic bag could go a long way.

Ear Protection

Unlike when you’re watching the NFL on TV at home, there’s no volume control when the crowd noise gets too loud for little ears in person. The stadium speakers, swell of cheering fans and special effects and lights alone could overwhelm any football fan, not to mention a young, first-time game goer. Fit your kid for some adjustable, noise-reducing headphones and let them pick their favorite color – maybe even the color of the home team – so it feels like a part of their outfit.

Entertainment

A favorite toy or game from home can bring loads of comfort to a child adjusting to the unfamiliar stadium environment. Want to keep your kid’s attention on the team even if their eyes aren’t on the field? Opt for a stuffie of the team’s mascot, football toys or really anything fun with the logo. Be advised that noisemakers are typically prohibited at NFL stadiums.

Transportation

Stadium policies vary, but many do not permit strollers. To stow away the smallest game attendees, suit up with a sling or baby carrier to get around. If a stroller is a must, confirm where the venue’s stroller parking area is located inside for easy check-in and exit.

Getting to the Stadium

Public Transportation

Save some money on parking and stress from traffic by taking public transportation to the game. Traveling to the stadium is a rite of passage in itself, and what better way to experience it than riding the bus or train in a sea of home team jerseys. Be sure to leave early to avoid potential delays or overcrowding.

Tailgating With Kids

When tailgating is done right, it can be fun for the whole family. While any kid can wrap their head around a lawn game, give them a chance to lead the activities by bringing their favorite game, too. After a snack break, where you can be a bit more creative without the stadium’s bag policy limits, school the young ones with a scrimmage and soft-surface football.

Entering & Admission

Is There an Age Limit for NFL Games?

There is no minimum age limit for kids at NFL games. Young children can often attend for free, though policies vary by stadium.

Do I Need to Buy a Ticket for My Child to Attend an NFL Game?

NFL games for kids require tickets, though entry policies often vary by team, venue, age or height. Children under 18 months are typically permitted free of charge, though select stadiums require their guardian to grab a physical ticket at the venue’s ticket office the day of the event. Verify a stadium’s current policies before buying your NFL tickets and check out our FAQ guide for the NFL season.

During the Game

Always keep your eye on the ball – and your child – during the game. Use your game prep to your advantage and monitor their mood for any necessary snack breaks, entertainment substitutions or timeouts. Most important, don’t miss out on teaching the next generation all of the team’s cheers and traditions.

As you’re approaching your section, map out a route to the closest bathroom. Also, keep an open area in mind where your kid can tire themselves out or cool down if they start to feel restless or overstimulated. If you’re determined to avoid paying for concessions, note where the nearest stands are located and how far the smell of pretzels and popcorn can travel.

Getting Home

If your child made it to the end of the game: congratulations! It’s completely normal for kids to be worn out before the final whistle blows, but especially when most games end well past an average bedtime.

If your little one hasn’t already hit the sack, it’s best to beat the rush by skipping the final few minutes. Otherwise, take in the amazing experience one last time while waiting for the main rush of fans to filter out, and be sure to take any last-minute pictures!