10 Tips to Throwing a Spooktastic Halloween Party

It’s that time of year again. You know the one where all month long our kids can suddenly tell us that since Halloween is this month they get to eat sugary, tooth-rotting, sleep-preventing treats? It is also the one where we get to be kids again if the spirit (hopefully a nice one) moves you to dress up. With so much already on your plate as a parent or guardian, we want to help take some of the scary out of planning a Halloween party for your little ghosts and ghouls! 

1. Start with the Invites.
This is a great way to get a little DIY craft time in with your littles and turn off the TV (as much as you love Cocomelon on repeat 🤪). Let them get creative with inexpensive Halloween stickers or glitter from stores like Dollar Tree.

2. Keep age in mind.
Will there be a variety of mini monsters at the party? Plan activities for all ages to enjoy. If older kids will be around have them help out the younger ones and you!

3. Time it right.
As much fun as everyone and you will have, you won’t want to overdo it. Two hours is an ideal timeframe for kids under five to eat, play, and scare their sillies out.

4. Choose a theme.
Yes, Halloween is a theme but simplify it for yourself by choosing elements of the holiday to focus on. For example, witches & warlocks, ghosts & goblins, the Great Pumpkin. You get the idea! Less is more. 

5. Make a playlist.
Plan games that involve music that is on theme or keep some on in the background. It never hurts to inspire movin’ and groovin’!

6. Keep snacks simple.
You know as well as we do when fun is involved feasting isn’t always a child’s priority. Hop over to fun Pinterest boards like this one https://pin.it/2jDPgwd for inspiration or to use!

7. Capture the moment.
While ghosts may not show in photos your guests will. Create a simple photo booth and snap pics to share on a private Snapchat Story to share with their parents or save to share later. 

8. Be sneaky.
We know Halloween and sugar go hand in hand, but there are ways to be a little healthy with our treats. Try kettle corn popcorn balls or apples and peanut butter! 

9. Inspire creativity.
Purchase round styrofoam balls from a local craft store. Allow kids to carve them with kid friendly utensils. Then let them paint or decorate as a fun take-home decor and favor! 

10. Limit your space.
Choose a designated room or two or a backyard if weather allows for your party. It will make cleanup much easier and keep your house less scary after everyone leaves.