Kids' Party Games Made Easy

Are you feeling a little uneasy about having to play kids' party games? Don't know which games to choose? Then you're at the right place.

The tips that I've included here will help you not only survive children's party games, but have the most fun you could ever have!

Whether you are a pro at organizing games for children or just starting out, these tips will help you in "wowing" the kids with fun and excitement.

You can find a great collection of birthday party games here.

Be Prepared

*Have plenty of games planned. You may be surprised at the speed with which some games can be played. I recommend planning at least twice as many games as you expect to have time for.

On the other hand, don't feel that you have to play all the games that you've planned. Take your cues from the kids. If they are having fun with something, let them continue.

*The order in which you do things is important. Plan to have both quiet and active games. That helps balance the children's energy levels.

Start out with a quiet introductory game. Then let the kids release all that party energy with an active game or two. Then settle down again with a quiet game.

*Fill a box or basket with everything you'll need for each game or activity, and stack the boxes right in the game area. Keep an index card with all party games and rules written down in order in which they are to be played.

*Have a back up plan. If you only plan outdoor games - be prepared for the weather change. Make sure you do have several indoor games that you could play if the unexpected happens.

*Expect problems - and roll with them. Let's face it, there is always a chance that something can go wrong. The more prepared you're for that, the less concerned you will be.

Develop a Theme

Children are extremely creative. They like transforming into a pirate, superman, or princess. Help them get into their characters by matching games to a certain theme.

Ask your child what she or he would like for a focal point for the event. Then you can tailor all your party games to that theme.

For example, you can make a "Treasure Hunt" tailored to a Pirate Theme. Play this game outdoors, prepare costumes, and have glittery items for the hunt...

You can find different birthday party ideas for classic themes and character themes.

Involve Others

You don't have to do everything on your own. Ask family members (birthday child's older brother, aunt, etc.) to help you with conducting your party activities.

You can also involve guests' parents if possible. They can help the kids who have difficulties with some activities, supervise play while you lead the game or determine the winners. If you can't round up enough adult volunteers, you may consider hiring a babysitter.

If you have a large group of kids (10 or more), you can divide children into two groups for games. Let your helper play with one group while you help the other one. Children aren't good at waiting and watching. This strategy will also prevent unoccupied children from wandering around.

Reduce Competitiveness

Children can't handle defeat until they're about seven (if ever!). During elimination games (like Musical Chairs, Hot Potato, etc.) or races of any kind there might be hurt feelings. We want all the children to feel good about themselves.

So let's put more emphasis on teamwork and less on competition. You can make up a rule that all the kids must cheer other team's players on in relay races, or any other games (even Pin the Tale on the Donkey).

Handling Challenges

What if a child doesn't want to play a certain game? The answer to that question will depend on the number of the "unwilling" children and their ages. If you have several kids that are not excited about playing a certain game, play something different.

If it's only one child - be a little firm and encourage him to participate. If the child still refuses, don't force him! The younger the children, the more likely it is to happen. Have an alternative available, such as drawing, coloring pages, or putting a jigsaw puzzle together.

I find that having a party theme solves this challenge completely. Kids will get caught up in an imaginary world of pre-designed theme that they wouldn't want to do anything else!

The "Insider Tips"

Over the years that I worked with kids, I gained several insights that I would like to share with you. They will help you in developing rapport with all the young guests and make them feel comfortable with the surroundings.

1. Keep your energy level in check. It should always be a little higher than the energy level of the kids at your party. The best way you can accomplish that is by moving, gesturing and speaking 2 or 3 times faster than you normally do. Adjust your pace if you have to, during the party - some children might be uncomfortable with fast pace.


2. Cheerful gestures like "high 5's", applause, saying "way to go", "fantastic job", etc. will be appreciated by children (make sure you include all the kids).


3. When you're explaining a game or simply speaking to kids - be at their eye level as much as possible. Children can be intimidated by adults who stand tall and look down to them. If you have to kneel down, please do it. It will work wonders!


4. Kids under the age of six love silly sounds or facial expressions. Try them out. It will be so much fun!

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