Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Always an Activity


A few years ago, I remember having a friend over for a play date. While we were hanging out, every time the kids would come in, I would start them on the next activity. She looked at me, and said very plainly, "You always have another activity!" I remember thinking, "Of course...doesn't everyone?!" It made me laugh, as I thought how crazy I would feel if I didn't know of another activity to pull out.

Here are three simple tips when it comes to planning games and activities...

1. Reinforce the Theme - When thinking of the party itinerary, I try to base the games and activities around what the theme is. For example, if it's a Star Wars party, maybe there could be a balloon light saber battle. If it's a princess party, painting nails should definitely make the list! There are so many ideas out there for the taking... google is my friend when it comes to this! I will google an idea, and then tweak what I find to work for my kids age(s).

2. Double Duty - When planning your activities, think about how they can be used to serve a purpose at the party. You can have an activity that also serves as the favor (i.e. they make something to take home). Or you could have an activity that would double as part of the food (i.e. decorating cookies). It's a great way to stay on track with your theme, and also streamline the party agenda. Remember the carnival birthday party I designed this past fall? The first activity was for the kids to decorate their own prize bag...that would also end up being their favor bag holding all their goodies from playing the carnival games. It was a great way to get them involved from the very beginning!

3. Have More than Enough - Always have more than enough activities planned...even if you don't get to all of them. That way, you'll never have dead time, wondering how you're going to entertain everyone! They don't have to be extravagant. It could be coloring pages of whatever theme you're going with. Or reading a story that would have to do with your theme. But, just make sure you have some in your back pocket to pull out...just in case!

Do you have any great tips on finding the perfect activity?

5 comments:

  1. This is fascinating to me. hehe.

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  2. Loving your suggestions. Yes, a list and lot of activities will be on my agenda these next couple of days. Thanks!

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  3. this is why i'm a terrible birthday party hostess. i hate planning activities. i'm the mom that tells everyone, "go outside and play."

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  4. i need to have you over. okay? you have a standing invitation. :)

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  5. y'all are hilarious.

    melissa, my sister is the same way...and she wonders why in the world you would ever need another option than that!? we work well together. ;) lucky for her, our boys' birthdays are 2 days apart, so she usually gets the benefit of that party being taken care of.

    and emily, i can't wait to come to your house!! :)

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