Kid's birthday parties need not be dreaded by the parents. There are many games, crafts and activities that will not only keep the birthday boy or girl happy but will surely keep the guests happy, both children and adults. Here are some activity ideas to help make your next party a fun and memorable one for all involved:

Classic Games

For many years, there have been traditional kid's party games that no party would be without. Some of these classics include Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Duck Duck Goose, Hot Potato and Red Light Green Light. Other classics include card games, musical chairs, bingo, charades, treasure hunt, pass the hat, relay races and the famous one leg race, where two partners each have one leg tied together and must figure out a way to walk together to get to the finish line. For quieter games, you may consider card games like Old Maid.

Crafts

While crafts can tend to be a messy activity that requires a lot of cleanup, crafts can also be the most rewarding activity, both for your child and the guests. To make it easier on parents, craft kits specifically made for children's parties are now available. Consider crafts like making cookies or cupcakes, balloon animals, making ice cream, creating a hand print keepsake, making jewelry, creating sand art, as well as many other crafting ideas appropriate for kids. Another idea is to have the kids create and/or decorate their own party hats and accessories.

Themes

Whatever games, crafts or other entertainment you choose, don't forget that many things can be customized easily to fit the theme of the party. For instance, if the party theme is pirates, then the pinata can be a ship and the breaking of the pinata can be a treasure hunt. Or if you have a princess themed party, "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" can now be "Pin the Crown on the Princess" instead.

Pinata Time

What kid's birthday party is complete without a pinata, loaded with candy and small toys. The pinata can often be a highlight or the most memorable part of the party.

Keep in mind that activities will be interspersed with gift opening, the birthday cake, eating food or snacks etc. so try not to plan too many activities for your party, otherwise you might find some guests falling asleep due to exhaustion!