Successful Party Crafts in 5 Steps

Anyone who has ever hosted a child’s birthday party knows that it takes planning to make the party a success. If you are a crafty person, or you have a crafty child, and you want to do a craft at your child’s party just follow these 5 simple steps to make it a success.

1. Think Kits – Several companies sell craft kits. To make it really easy on yourself purchase enough kits for each guest, plus a few extras, just in case. If your budget doesn’t allow for purchasing premade kits, consider using sandwich bags or envelopes to make your own kits with all the supplies. That way, it is easy to make sure that everyone gets all the pieces they need. Some things like crayons, markers, glue, and scissors can be shared.
2. Consider Age – When planning the craft you will do, keep in mind the age of your guests. For the young party goer, simple things like coloring? or putting stickers on a hat or picture? are probably best.? Older party goers may enjoy cutting and pasting, stringing beads, or painting.
3. Simplify – Are there any steps you can do ahead of time? Have? paper pre-cut into any needed shapes or use fun foam that has a sticky back so you don’t have to glue. The fewer steps there are, the easier it will be for you to keep their attention and assist multiple children at the same time.
4. Do Double-Duty – If you’re doing a carnival-style party with multiple activities and prizes, have the children decorate a paper lunch sack to go with the theme of the party as they arrive. Then, as they go through the party and get different goodies they can put them into the goody bag that they made themselves. It gives them something to keep track of all their stuff and keeps them busy while waiting for everyone to arrive
5. Have Fun – Probably the most important thing to remember. This is about letting the kids have fun, experiment, and get creative. Sit back, relax, and see what they come up with.

Jennifer Lavender is a homeschooling mom and Independent Consultant with Usborne Books At Home. Her favorite part of both “jobs” is being able to get creative and spend time with kids. To find out more about Jennifer or Usborne Books visit Jennifer Lavender…And Then Some or sign up for her Usborne News mailing list.

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