Written by Party Expert Linda Kaye, founder of Linda Kaye's Birthdaybakers, Partymakers, Inc.
TIPS FROM THE PARTY EXPERT
Share Something Special
Favors can reflect the party theme or can be based on something that your child enjoys--such as trading cards or drawing pictures--and wants to share with others.
"Treat" Everyone the Same
It's a good idea to give everyone the same party favor--either one item or a group of two or three items--and it's preferable to give the same favors to boys and to girls. If you are having difficulty getting enough treats for all your party guests, then giving different favors to boys and girls is fine.
Be Sensitive to Size
Be sensitive to the size of the items, especially as very young children like putting things in their mouths. Many packages are labeled with an age-appropriate recommendation, so be sure to take notice.
Make It Personal
Personalization can add a special touch. This can be done with a permanent paint pen from your local craft store. Items such as beach pails, sippy cups, and hats are practical options.
A Word of Warning
In selecting favors, assume that the children may not be supervised when playing with them; avoid favors that have points or sharp edges, and anything that might make a mess (such as paints). It's best to avoid toy guns, swords, and other aggressive toys. If giving candy, avoid nuts.
The Goody Bag Game
If you have some extra time at the end of the party, a fun way to distribute goody bags is to play a game. Have the children sit in a circle and turn on party music. Pass the goody bags around one at a time. When the music stops, the person holding the goody bag keeps it. This continues until all the party guests receive a goody bag.
FAVORITE FAVORS! Here are a few ideas for party favors based on things that preschoolers enjoy:
