Food. It Works.
Families really do want to come to your Family Math Night. They’re just busy… with life. One simple strategy that has consistently boosted attendance for me is offering food.
Taking dinner off a family’s to‑do list makes their evening a little easier.
Of course, providing food can add to your already full plate. So here’s how I recently solved that for my Math Medley Family Math Night event.
I asked.
Last month, Chick‑fil‑A donated 100 of their delicious chicken sandwiches for our event. One quick phone call was all it took.
Many businesses have a community‑giving component and genuinely enjoy supporting local events—especially ones that bring families together around hands‑on math. Chick‑fil‑A was excited to be part of something meaningful for their community.
Over the years, I’ve also reached out to local pizza places. Several have donated food, and others have offered generous discounts when a full donation wasn’t possible.
Calling is a great way to connect, but email or a letter works just as well. Here’s an example letter you can use.
And if you do secure donated food, be sure to get a head count ahead of time so you have enough for everyone.
Because I live in a pretty mild climate, I’ve often had families enjoy their meal outside at picnic tables. In this photo, taken from inside the multi‑use room, you can see families through the windows happily eating their donated pizza outdoors.
I’ve always been fortunate to have the PTA/PTO provide free water for families at my events. And after a delicious chicken sandwich or a slice of pizza, what does everyone naturally gravitate toward…
…dessert.
This is where things get fun and it can double as a great fundraising opportunity. Just look at the mouth‑watering treats you can showcase at a dessert table. And because I’m always looking for ways to involve students, putting them in charge of selling the treats turns this into an amazing student‑run math station. It’s hands‑on, empowering, and full of real‑world math.
Our Chick-fil-A Set-Up
We all have very busy lives. But sometimes it just takes offering dinner to bring families out to your event!
If you’d like information on how you can host an amazing Family Math Night event or send home hands-on math games, do not hesitate to reach out.
info@familymathnight.com OR 1.800.605.5034