PARTY LENGTH:

Kids 4 and under: 1-1/2 hours
Kids 5 and up: 2 hours

1-2 Year Olds:

• Keep parties short and simple!
• Baby-proof your home.
• Clear out a large area so children can arrive and play with toys.
• Serve simple snacks and cupcakes.
• Have children play simple games such as "Ring around the Rosy" or single simple songs together.
• Use simple decorations such as streamers out of reach. Avoid balloons, as they are a choking hazard.

3 Year Olds:

• Play games such as "Follow the Leader" or try blowing bubbles. Choose about 4 short games.
• Schedule a free-play time.
• Move breakable items.
• Serve drinks already poured in cups - don't leave the pitcher on the table!
• Decorate in bright colors. Try writing guests' names on party hats and placing in the child's seat, then make a game of finding the right seat.
• Give treat bags with simple toys.

4-5 Year Olds:

• Kids at this age start to really appreciate Themes, based on favorite characters.
• Games and activities can be more advanced. Try treasure hunts, art projects and "Duck, Duck, Goose" and "Pin the Tail on the Donkey".
• Decorate in the theme.
• Have children arrive, decorate or make party items, play two or three games, then eat. After eating, kids this age will be up for a few more games.
• Have the birthday child pass out treat sacks before children leave.

6-7 Year Olds:

• Have children dress up or have their face painted.
• Play games such as the Parachute Game (using a sheet, have kids hold the edge, then as they lift up and come down, call out a child's name and he has to cross under the sheet before it falls down).
• Have children eat, then play four more games.
• Have a prize chest for guests to pick a treat when they leave.
• With a small group, special outings become a good idea at this age.
• Remember to let the birthday child start as many games as possible!

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