As kids grow older, it becomes a challenge to continually think of birthday party activities that will engage them and their friends. When kids get to a certain age, they become tired of the usual clown and cartoon-themed parties. Thankfully, they’re also keen to enjoy more interactive activities, making their birthday party a great opportunity for them to learn while having fun!
Here are some educational themes to consider for your child’s next party:
- Painting
Do you always find your child coloring, drawing, painting or sculpting clay? He definitely has a creative brain! Apart from nurturing this gift on his own time, it’s also a good activity to share with friends. Simply find an open space in your home and line up some easels, acrylic paints and brushes. Let their imaginations run wild by giving them free reign on what to paint, and let them talk about their masterpieces. If budget permits, frame the artworks as a keepsake.
- Scrapbooking
Another crafty activity you can try is scrapbooking. What’s great about it is that kids can choose a theme that is aligned with their own interests and create a book of memories for it.
Aside from having the supplies ready, of utmost importance to hosting a scrapbooking party is having enough space. The kids will need a lot of room to spread out their supplies, so consider renting a venue with an open floor concept.
- Mad Science activities
Science parties are a great way to get kids excited about learning. While science may be boring or even intimidating to some, adding some element of play will make it more interesting to kids. Line up a couple of science experiments that the kids can create. An example is the oobleck or the cornstarch quicksand. In many cases, these projects only require basic, household ingredients. Check out the LiveScience website for easy experiments.
For added effect, provide the kids with a lab coat and goggles!
- Lego-building
Who says Legos are just for boys? If you’ve noticed that your child likes building things, then nurture that interest with a Lego-party. Bring out their inner architects and urban planners by having them create houses, structures or even cities. Let them showcase their work through a show-and-tell after.
- Baking or Cooking
Does your child love helping you in the kitchen? If she’s interested in making and tasting dishes, consider a baking or cooking party. Following a recipe can help build kids’ math skills and reading literacy, while decorating pastries can exercise their creative impulses. Choose an easy recipe or two for them to work on. Don’t forget to feast on their creations as well!
- Scavenger or Treasure Hunt
If your child and his friends are the outdoorsy types, try hosting a scavenger or treasure hunt party. Scavenger hunts require a list of things to find or do, and a time limit; while treasure hunts require a sequence of activities to be done in order to find the hidden treasure. Both themes allow the kids to run about, which makes them perfect for active kids. To foster camaraderie, break the kids into teams and have them create a team name and group cheer!
- Dance Party
An education in dance not only keeps children physically fit, it helps improve motor skills and memory too! You can host a dance party by hiring a choreographer, or simply pop a dance game on your PlayStation. Don’t forget to video their dance moves for posterity!
- Volunteering
Volunteer activities can be tailored to both younger and older children. If your child is already involved in your community, volunteering at an animal shelter, orphanage, or any non-profit can be a fulfilling alternative to a traditional birthday celebration. For kids who have yet to be involved, this theme can expand their world views in powerful ways.
(Image Credit: Painting)
