- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preteenagers today articles
- preteenagers today q&a
- teenagers today articles
- teenagers today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Up All Night
How to Have a Great Slumber Party
It's easy to turn an ordinary kids' sleepover into a fabulous and exciting themed party. Penny Warner, a leading author of children's party and activity books, talks about how parents and kids can plan a fun and memorable slumber party with ideas from her new book, Slumber Parties: 25 Fun-filled Party Themes.
Q: How old should my child be before we host a slumber party?
Warner: The ages between 8 and 14 are the most popular years to enjoy a slumber party. If a child is much younger than 8, he or she may not be ready to spend the night away from home and may be a little overwhelmed by an all-night party. If a child is beyond 14, he or she may have grown tired of the large parties and prefer a more intimate "mini-slumber party," with only a couple of good friends.
Q: What if my child is 6 and is really begging me to have a slumber party?
Warner: You could host a mini-slumber party, much like for the older child, with just a few friends instead of a large group. Many of the ideas in Slumber Parties: 25 Fun-filled Party Themes would work well for a small gathering.
Q: What are some of the more popular slumber party themes kids enjoy today?
Warner: Parties that feature music and dance are popular with all age groups. Craft and cookie parties are fun because you get to do something at the party, then take it home or eat it. Parties that offer makeovers, dress-up or fashion are great because the kids get to do outrageous things with clothes, accessories, makeup and hair. Scary parties are fun for the older kids, because they like a thrill. Drama and talent show parties are entertaining for hours. In general, younger kids like to make things, while the older kids like to be active.
