 A lot of games can be made from items you already have on-hand (balls, buckets, brooms, etc.) and therefore cost little or nothing. Additional games may need to be purchased, but most are less than $20 and you can usually use them over-and-over again.
Alternate rumbustious games with quieter games keep the children's energy at reasonable levels. Concentrate on noncompetitive games where all children enjoy success and approval.
ideas and rules for hundreds of games.
Prizes aren't necessary for most games, but if you do provide prizes give one to each child for his/her effort. For instance: award a prize to each child who completes an obstacle course, not just to the child who completes the course in the least amount of time. As prizes can be small Favor items, such as stickers, award ribbons, coins, etc.
You may keep a prize basket with an assortment of little items and allow the child to pick the item he wants.
* Be flexible. Don't require all children to participate in a game and be ready to allow a game to go longer if children are having a good time or to change to a new game as needed. Be prepared to help those who need it... a child who can't read the clues well or a child who may need an extra hint.
For a birthday party is fine to let the birthday child have first turns at the games.
Activities, games, and entertainment enliven the party, provide an opportunity for the children to interact, and can be the most fun and memorable part of a party.
Planning in advance and preparation are the keys to successful party activities.
* Simple arrival activities, such as making and decorating name tags, gift bags, or party hats, are a good way for children to transition into the party. Supply plain name tags, favor bags, or party hats and a supply of markers, stickers and ribbons.
Have an adult available to provide guidance, such as "be sure to write your name on your favor bag". You can also have arriving children draw on or sign a big Happy Birthday card for your child. Write "Happy 7th Birthday, Jason" (inserting the appropriate age and name for your child, of course) in colorful letters on poster board and then have the children add their names and artwork.
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