Baseball / Basketball / Soccer Party
Before the guests arrive, divide the kids into teams (try to even out the abilities of each) and develop a list of game-day rules. Keep in mind that some of the guests may already know how to play the sport and for others this could be a first chance, so you may want to make a few silly rules to ensure that the game is fun for everyone. For example, after three strikes the batter has to do a silly dance to earn three more pitches. And don’t worry about having all of the equipment for this great theme.Use plastic cones if you don’t have soccer goals, ask the kids to bring their own mitts and favorite bat, etc. It’s always fun to start off one of these sports parties with a “parade” of teams followed by the playing of the National Anthem (played on a boom box while one child holds an American flag). Just remember that your goal is to make the party fun for everyone and play down the competitive aspect of the game — so silliness helps!
Olympics Party
This is a great theme for almost every age because you can tailor your “Olympic events” to their abilities. Possible events are: relay races, Frisbee toss, standing long jump, obstacle course, three-legged race, water balloon toss, and wrap the mummy (toilet paper unrolled onto a teammate). It’s really fun to start this party with the running of the Olympic torch (made from tissue paper and a paper towel tube) while Olympic-themed music is played on a boom box. And end your Olympics party with a medal ceremony (awarding everyone the same medal).
Water Play Party
If you happen to be blessed with a swimming pool, a pool party can be a great theme. Just be sure to hire a professional lifeguard for safety reasons! But you can have a great water play party even without access to a pool. Ideas include setting up an obstacle course that leads the guests through a set of sprinklers, water balloon toss, or even renting (or buying) an inflatable water slide and hooking up the outdoor hose to it can be tons of fun! Just have a few back up games or crafts to use in case you happen to have a slightly cool day and the appeal of water play doesn’t last long!
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