“And then we didn’t even realize it, and by the time that we put him to bed and came back to our room we were like, ‘Oh, Happy New Year!”’ said the 36-year-old business consultant from Long Island, N.Y.

The next year, she and her husband wanted to do something slightly more fun to mark the holiday, but it was hard — the family was in the process of moving and they weren’t familiar with any baby sitters in the area.

Friends in a similar situation suggested they come over with their son to celebrate. They were joined by two more couples with children. The BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby) party worked so well, it’s been a tradition ever since.

“Now we have at least two children apiece,” said Creedon. During last year’s party, “all of them stayed up through New Year’s into one o’clock in the morning.”

New Year’s Eve can be a tough holiday to celebrate with toddlers. But rather than stress over getting baby sitters or resign themselves to an evening on the couch, families can find creative ways to involve children in the party.

“New Year’s Eve out is highly overrated,” said Lisa Stiepock, editor of Wondertime magazine, which is geared to parents of young children. “It comes with high expectations, so you’re almost bound to be disappointed.”

So if you’re ready to embrace the New Year with children in tow, here are some ideas: