Get some old broken appliances out of your basement, closet or attic and let the kids tinker with real tools. Their faces will light up with wonder as they open up phones or alarm clocks, VCR's or vacuum cleaners.
Mini Wagon RideUndoubtedly, hayrides are the way for little buckaroos to tour the party grounds in style. Decorate a wagon (preferably one with room for two cowboys hat available for riders. Line the wagon with fresh hay, attach a willing and able teenager, and you're in business.
Mystery MushThis simple but wonderous mixture of constarch and water fasinates children. As they pat and squish it, the mush changes magically from dry to wet and from hard to soft. In each of three bowls, stire together a batch of mush by combining 4 cups of cornstarch with 1 cup of water. You also [...]
Besides the built-in-excitement of any timed event, this quirky race comes with a twist. Each contestant must use a stick to roll a lemon to the finish line. Sound easy? Unlike a ball, which rolls true, this fruit has a tendency to wobble and weave. So the key to winning may be simply staying on [...]
Dare...WriteWrite challenges on small pieces of paper for each of the kids, such as "Do a dance," "Kiss a friend, " "Sing a song," or "Do a somersault." Stuff one note in each balloon, blow up balloons, and toss them onto the party floor. Have the kids try to pop a balloon. When a balloon [...]
Firefly TagIf you are planning to have a nightime party or slumber party, this is the game for you. After the sun goes down, your guests can flicker their flashlights in this nocturnal game. As they play, they'll learn how fireflies communicate -- the lightning bugs send signals of blinking light to attract mates. To [...]
Feather VaultAll it takes is a feather for each child to get this even under way -- or airborne. (You can buy a package of feathers at many department stores or hobby shops.) On cue, players try to blow their feathers overhead. Whoever keeps theirs aloft the longest without using her hands is the winner. [...]
Feat BallContestants in this game take turns tossing a ball against a cement wall and catching it before it hits the ground. What's the hitch? Before making the catch, a player must complete a task posed by the challenger. For example, the first child might pitch the ball at the wall and clap his hands [...]
The trick to this race is putting your best foot forward -- but not too far. Contestants must race to the finish line by placing one foot in front of the other; heel to toe, all the way.
Doll Show For this event, little children get to bring along and dress up one of their favorite dolls or stuffed animals. After thoroughly grooming their charges, the toddlers can parade before a panel of friendly judges. Every contestant's entry receives a prize -- for fanciest dress, funniest hat, cutest smile, longest hair, fuzziest fur, or [...]