Birthday Party Games

Before you start stressing out, take a deep breath! Keeping everyone entertained is a whole lot easier than you might think.

There are a few things to consider before planning your activities, though.

The age group of your guests is going to play the leading role in determining the types of birthday party games that you choose to play.

• For kids between the ages of 1 and 3, keep it simple. They are too young for elaborate organized games and can be entertained very easily with basic party games. Try activities like The Freeze Dance, story times, or art activities.
• For kids ages 4-8, organized birthday party games are a lot more fun! This is a great age because the kids understand what a birthday party is all about! Pinatas, relay races and Bingo are great choices for this age.

• By the time the kids are 9-12 years old they get a little harder to please, and you start running into gender issues. Any games that you plan should be challenging and fun, or the kids will be bored and disinterested. Slumber parties with makeovers or venue parties (like at a roller rink) are good choices for this age group.
• Ah, the lovely teenage years! Group games, or games that can be played with teams are best for this age group, so that no one feels isolated or insecure. Charades, Scavenger Hunts, and the Limbo are fun choices. Board games are great for this age, too. Try Pictionary or Cranium.
• Adult party games Group games are the ideal for adults, as well. While adults may be a little hesitant to engage in game playing, you can get them involved just by making them feel comfortable. Make sure the atmosphere is relaxed, and that no one feels as though they will be put on the spot. Try some icebreaker activities at the beginning of your party to get people mingling and more at ease.

Consider the number of people you've got coming. You want to make sure that you have enough space to perform the activities that you are planning.

Also, you want to be able to stay in control of the activity (particularly at a children's party), so be sure that you plan something that will be manageable for your group size.

The location of your party will determine the types of games that you should plan. Active, physical games will require more space, while board games or sit-down games can be done comfortably in your living room.

Check out this spectacular website that is jam-packed with birthday party games for kids and adults:

Keep in mind that you can "customize" any ordinary birthday party game just by making a few changes to match your theme. Have fun with it and let your imagination come out to play!