Be a Clown

Sometimes very young children are afraid of clowns, but most over the age of three will have fun with this party. 

Set Up: Visit your local second-hand store to get a collection of bright colored shirts, pants, dresses, and even shoes. If you find some wigs or funny hats, that’s great, too. You should also buy some costume make-up, be sure to get plenty of white. You can often get red, stick-on clown noses at party stores, and they are fun, or you can just use lipstick to give the kids their red noses. Print off a few pictures of clowns to have on display, and ask some teenage helpers to attend. 

Invitations: Send a picture of a clown with the invitations and be sure the kids know they should not wear clothes they have to worry about getting make-up on.

Arrival: Ask the guests if they would like to be a happy clown or sad clown and show them some pictures to choose from. Have your helpers paint their faces, and let them see themselves in a mirror.

Main Event: When all faces are ready, bring out your costume supplies. Be sure youngsters understand that clowns look funnier when their clothes do not fit them right and don’t match. Let them try different outfits and laugh at each other. You may need to belt or pin up some of the costumes to make it safe for kids to walk around in them. You could try stuffing some of the clothes full of plastic bags or newspapers to make some chubby clowns. Once everyone is dressed, have your helpers teach them some knock-knock jokes or practice some simple tricks like summersaults. When all the kids have a little clown routine ready, let them perform for one another. Be sure to take lots of pictures. 

Refreshments: Circus treats like cotton candy or snow cones would be a hit here. Animal crackers or Cracker Jack might go over well for clowns, as well.