How to Host a Successful Slumber Party

One of my favorite activities as a child, was having sleepovers. While they were always fun, my mother learned some valuable lessons over the years. I wish she'd known these lessons before hand. We could have saved ourselves some trouble. Here are some suggestions for the younger set.

1. Set a limit of children to invite to these parties. I once begged my mother to allow me to invite every girl in my class. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings. After some resignation, she assented. She reasoned that at least half of the girls would have other plans. They did not, and my step-father had to make a quick run to the store to restock our snack supply.

2. If the children are younger, have them show up already in their pajamas, or have them change soon after they arrive. Also, have them set up their sleeping bags and pillows before they begin their activities. This will save a headache when bedtime comes. This will allow them to slip into bed as uneventfully as possible. It may also curb fights for the best spots.

3. Have some activities planned. It is always nice to have some planned activities, however, they should not feel pressured to carry out these plans. Often, they have their own ideas of what they want to do. When I was younger we bought activity kits. Some had stickers to color, while others were for making necklaces. The craft stores have dozens of these for boys and girls.

4. Make dessert an event. We usually served make-your-own sundaes. Plain ice cream works best, either vanilla, chocolate, or both. Put out bowls of nuts, sprinkles, chocolate chips, M&Ms, gummy bears, and assorted syrups and let the children go to town. There will be a mess, so cover the table with newspaper or a disposable table cloth. This will make clean-up much easier. it is also a good idea to find out from parents of any food allergies. Younger children often forget or just aren't aware, so they aren't the best sources for this information.

5. Chaperon, but don't hover. Children like to think they are grown ups sometimes.

6. Plan a video to end the night. Have the children lay down in their spots to watch the movie. This will calm them down easily, and they will usually fall asleep with the lights out.