Fun Kid's Party Games That You Can Easily Do At Home

Hosting a kids' party is a wonderful opportunity to create joyful memories. Including some engaging and fun games can ensure everyone has a fantastic time. Here are a few timeless classics and creative ideas, including games that use household items and downloadable options from the Green Hare Idea website, to keep the young ones entertained and happy.

1. Musical Chairs

Musical Chairs is a favourite for kids of all ages. Arrange chairs in a circle, with one fewer than the number of players. Play some cheerful music and have the children walk around the chairs. When the music stops, they must quickly find a seat. Remove one chair each round until one child remains. If you don't have enough chairs, you can download and printout or musical circles instead. Place the circles around a circle and have the children walk around and stand on a circle when the music stops. Take one a circle away each time as you would for musical chairs. As a hint, have extra printed out in case some get damaged.

2. Treasure Hunt

A treasure hunt can add a touch of adventure to any party. Hide small trinkets or treats around the party area and let the children find them. You can theme the hunt around pirates, fairies, or superheroes to make it even more exciting. Templates and ideas for themed treasure hunts can be downloaded from the Green Hare Idea website.

3. Pin the Tail on the Donkey

This classic game is always a hit. Blindfolded children take turns trying to pin a tail on a picture of a donkey (or any other themed character). The child that pins the tail closest to where it should go wins. It’s a simple game, but it generates lots of laughter and excitement. Printable versions of this game can be found on the Green Hare Idea website.

4. Craft Stations

Craft stations offer a creative outlet for children. Set up different areas where kids can decorate cupcakes, make friendship bracelets, or create their own art such as masks or paintings. It's a wonderful way for children to express their creativity and take home a keepsake. You can find craft templates and ideas on the Green Hare Idea website.

5. Freeze Dance

Freeze Dance combines music and movement. Play music and let the kids dance. When the music stops, they must freeze in place. Anyone caught moving is out until the next round. The last one dancing wins. This game requires nothing more than a music player and some lively tunes, making it easy to set up with household items.

6. Hot Potato

Hot Potato is a fun twist on Pass the Parcel. Wrap a prize with the same number of layers as there are children. In between each layer, add a piece of paper numbered either 1, 2 or 3. Fill three bowls with different types of small prizes such as chocolate, lollies or trinkets and number each bowl, 1, 2 or 3. Then have the children sit in a circle and pass around the wrapped parcel while music plays. When the music stops, the child holding the parcel must unwrap one layer, read the number in the layer and then leave the game to pick a smaller prize from the corresponding lucky dip. The game continues until the last layer is unwrapped, revealing the last prize, being the biggest prize for the final player. Removing prizes from the layers of wrapped parcel reduces the amount of wrapping paper needed, and removing children from the game each go means you don't have to keep track of who has had a turn of unwrapping and who hasn't.

Tips for a Smooth Party

- Keep it age-appropriate: Ensure the games are suitable for the children’s age group.

- Be prepared: Have all the necessary materials and instructions ready before the party starts.

- Ensure safety: Always supervise the games to prevent accidents and ensure fair play.

- Include everyone: Make sure all kids have the chance to participate and enjoy themselves.

With these engaging and fun games, your kids' party is sure to be a success. The goal is to create happy memories and ensure everyone leaves with a smile on their face! Be sure to check out the Green Hare Idea website for more downloadable games and resources to make your party planning even easier.