How to make your events inclusive and fun for all

PTAs

28 January 2026

Image: A line of people in blue t‑shirts walking towards trees.

Caroline Hayward is a Parentkind PTA Community Adviser and former PTFA Chair.

PTA events are a brilliant way to bring families together, raise funds and celebrate your school community. But to make sure everyone feels welcome and included, it’s important to plan with care and consideration for the diverse needs of your families.

Here are some practical ways your PTA can make your next school fair inclusive, accessible and enjoyable for all.

Be allergy (and medically) aware

Food is often a highlight of school fairs, but it can be a source of anxiety for families managing allergies or dietary restrictions. To help everyone feel safe:

Clearly label all food items with allergen information
Offer a variety of options, including nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan choices
Provide a “safe snacks” table with pre-packaged items that meet common allergy needs
Brief volunteers on cross-contamination risks and safe food handling. Make sure the first aider is aware of any children carrying EpiPens
For diabetic children, speak to the parents about the best way to support the child – can a few simple adjustments allow them to feel included?

A little preparation goes a long way in helping families feel confident and cared for.

Celebrate cultural diversity

Your school community is likely made up of families from a wide range of backgrounds. Reflecting that diversity in your fair helps everyone feel seen and valued. You could:

Invite families to host stalls that showcase their culture through food, crafts or games
Include music and decorations from different traditions
Avoid themes or activities that rely on stereotypes or cultural appropriation
Use inclusive language and imagery in your promotional materials

Representation matters — and when children see their cultures celebrated, it fosters pride and belonging.

Support LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ families and young people is an important part of building an inclusive school community. You can:

Use inclusive language in signage and communications (e.g. ‘families’ instead of ‘mums and dads’)
Ensure your fair is a safe space for all identities — free from judgement or assumptions
Include stall themes or activities that celebrate diversity and individuality
Encourage volunteers and committee members to model respectful, inclusive behaviour

Visibility and acceptance help LGBTQ+ children and families feel seen, supported and safe.

Make It SEND Accessible

Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) should be able to enjoy the fair just as much as anyone else. Consider:

Creating a quiet zone or sensory-friendly area for children who may feel overwhelmed
Ensuring pathways and stall layouts are accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs
Offering visual schedules or symbols to help children understand what’s happening
Providing inclusive games and activities that don’t rely on loud noises or physical ability

Ask families or the SENDCO what would help their children feel included, listening is the first step to meaningful inclusion.

Communicate Clearly and Inclusively

Make sure your messaging is accessible and welcoming:

Use plain language and avoid jargon
Translate key information into community languages if needed
Share accessibility details in advance, such as parking, toilets and quiet spaces
Encourage feedback and suggestions from all families
For children with complex medical needs, speak to parents and staff to ensure the event is safe and inclusive for the child. Make sure your first aider is aware of what to do in an emergency/medical incident for these children

Inclusivity isn’t just about what you do — it’s about how you invite others to be part of it.

Need Support?

Planning an inclusive event takes thought and care, but you’re not alone. The Parentkind PTA Community Team is here to help with advice, resources and real-life examples from PTAs across the UK. Together, we can create events that celebrate every child, every family and every story. Because when everyone feels welcome, everyone wins.