Ideas to keep a partyful of kids occupied

[pcjen]

Moms: My dh and I are throwing a small party soon. We have invited 6 couples and their children. If all come, we will have 14 children here ranging from age 1 to 11, (but most of them will be 2 to 5 yo.) Ideally I would like to spend most of the party mixing with the adult guests and dealing with food and drink stuff, not supervising a "playgroup." Does anyone have any suggestions for activities that they will enjoy, and require little supervision or assistance?

(I don't know anyone who can be hired to help BTW.)

Thank you!

[Chelsea]

I usually find that with some toys on hand, the kids will all entertain themselves when there is a large group like that. You might try having some board games for the older kids. Also, if the older kids are up for it, putting them "in charge" of the little kids helps keep everyone busy. You could have a simple craft activity, paper crowns with stickers to decorate them etc., something most kids can do with little supervision. We have had parties of 30-40 people, with kids ranging from baby to 12 and have had very little in the way of organized activities, but the kids all enjoy themselves and play well together for the most part...

- Chelsea

[Shantimama]

Try a dress-up theme. Invite all of the kids to come dressed for a tea party ( and have lots of finger foods, tea cups and pots ready) or as pirates or something. Wearing costumes will give them a direction for their activity and they won't nees quite as much adult direction!

[m&m]

I had success with a lion I made out of cardboard with a big hole for his mouth and i made bean bags for his "food" - the kids loved that.

Also a mini gym is fun - indoor slide, tents, hoop tunnel, ball pit, etc.

trains, or car racing is a great all ager - the little ones love to watch as the older ones play.

It really depends what the kids are into - puppets, dress-up, arts and crafts, a treasure hunt... all can be adapted for many ages.