The whole point of a party is to have fun, of course, and DIY Family Entertaining host Belma Johnson offers tips to maximize the fun for everyone: - Schedule activities and games from the beginning to the end of the party so that momentum continues.
- If kids of different ages are present, provide age-appropriate activities so that everyone is entertained.
- Anticipate that all the kids won't arrive at the same time. Provide activities or arts-and-crafts tables to interest early comers. As other kids arrive, they can join in without disrupting the activity. A swing set or play area can come in handy too.
- When all the guests arrive, plan for group activities that will include everyone. Here are some ideas:
- "Music Mania" is a version of musical chairs. Put sheets of colored paper on the ground, preferably on a hard surface such as a deck or patio. Use one less sheet of paper than the total number of children. When the music starts, the children walk in a circle. When the music stops, everyone scrambles to land on a sheet of paper. Whoever winds up without a sheet of paper plays the music for the next round.
- "Car Wash" gives young children the opportunity to mimic their parents and play in water, things every young child likes to do. Gather together children's wheeled toys -- trucks, wagons, tricycles and so on -- and supply warm soapy water.
- For "Scavenger Hunt," divide the children into groups and give each group a list of everyday items. The first group to come back with all the items on the list wins.
- Kids love magicians and clowns. If you're hiring outside entertainment, make sure you see the act beforehand or get a reference from a trusted friend.
- When it comes to easy entertainment, animals are a no-brainer. Pony rides and petting zoos can add excitement to your party.
- Plan for the party to last about 2-1/2 hours. Everyone will appreciate your having the party at a time that allows for a nap before or after.
RESOURCES :
The Only Kid's Party Book You'll Ever Need
(Reader's Digest, 1998)
by Gill Dickinson and Julia Goodwin
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