Host a Cell Phone Sleepover

Kids these days aren't happy to just sit around and count stars on the back porch for a sleepover. Nope, now you have to have video games and soda, snacks and Tivo. So, in honor of this new generation of tech-savvy sleepovers, here's how to host a rather fun cell phone sleepover party!

First of all, ask all the kids to bring their cell phones. This can be done with a funky invitation that you make out of craft foam. Choose a color and cut out the shape of a phone with the antennae. Add flap to the front that covers ¾ of the phone by using small metal rings (found in any craft shop that sells jewelry findings.

Poke holes through both pieces and thread them onto the rings so you can easily flip the phone open. Add drawn or foam buttons to the front panel. On the inside, write the details of the party. Decorate the "screen" of your phone with a photo of the child who is hosting the party. Use puffy fabric paint to create the frame and add any extra details to make the phone look more authentic.

For the actual party, you will have the kids make their own cell phone holders. You will need to buy generic cell holders ahead of time, one for each child. In addition, a good collection of craft supplies will be necessary. Try the following:

Colored feathers

Sequins

Animal print faux fur

Plastic gems

Assorted jewelry bits, charms, etc.

Puffy fabric paint

Craft paint

Stickers

Anything else that would be cool to use on a cell phone holder

You will also need a few glue guns and some silicon glue sticks. If the children are very young, you will need to do the gluing for them to avoid injuries. For older kids, keep a close eye on them and instruct them on the safe use of glue guns before getting started. You should also let them know that they should paint first, then do their gluing, for best results.

Set up all the craft items on a long table. It usually works best to put things like gems and such in bowls. Give each child a cell phone carrier and then let them select what they want to decorate with. They will spend at least an hour decorating their carriers. After that . . . well, you're on your own!