You have decided to plan your first ever Halloween party. As the date gets closer you realize....how are you supposed to keep 30 5 year olds from running a mok and you being demoted from cool and crisp party coordinator to stressed-out party referee? Here are a few tips to help you plan the best party for parents and kids...
Make a tentative schedule for the party and time frame for which the whole party will last taking into account number of kids, ages and time of the party. A 2 hour party is more than enough for most kids (and parents) but if you have older children or a mixed group you can always plan a movie after the scheduled party time.
Stick to the schedule as best you can-if you plan for cake at 5:30 have cake at 5:30 even if you still have 2 games left...you can always go back and revisit games afterwards.
Plan out activities in advance but not too many...activities keep everyone out of trouble but kids enjoy free play too-and your child will have a chance to show off their favorite toys.
Arrange groups of toys by type in different rooms or areas outside, that will keep kids from congregating in one space which usually equals somebody fighting. Toy groups might include a puzzle table, lego table, baby play room, or even dress up station.
Another great idea is to make the kids table into a coloring station using butcher paper or postal paper, it is thick and can double as a tablecloth. Arrange paper across the table and tape with masking tape underneath. then arrange crayons or markers in glass jars (we reuse salsa jars) and place them on the table. The kids can color while waiting for their food.
Make the kids work for their candy.. you can have games with candy as a prize or make a 'candy hunt' by placing candy around the yard and have the kids find it. With older children you can divide them into groups and have 'clues' to where the candy is hidden.
If you have an older or mixed group, let the parents know that there is a Halloween movie that will be played following the party, giving a chance for the younger ones to head out, and the older ones can enjoy some down time. Note: It's a good idea to let parents know in advance what movie will be played-many children scare easily or parents are particular about what their children see....parents knowing in advance helps them to 'plan' to stay or call it a night.
Look over the party areas-are they safe for the ages that will be attending? Do you need to put up some baby gates or put away some favorite crystal? Being aware of possible hazards to certain ages can be stress relief especially for the parents. Do you live on a main road-recruit some adults to help supervise the outside play can help too.
Any other tips-just email and I will add them here!
Happy Crafting! (and Party Planning!)
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