As your child grows older, it can be a true challenge to continually think of birthday party themes that are engaging—especially if you would also like these themes to be educational. But never fear! Educational and entertaining birthday party ideas do exist.
Here are some fun themes to consider the next time you need a spark of inspiration:
1. Baking
Does your child love to help you in the kitchen? If she adores making and tasting treats, consider a bake-your-own cupcake or cookie party. Following a recipe can build both math skills and reading literacy, while decorating a cookie or cupcake can exercise each participant’s creative impulses. Personalized aprons and cake boxes can further extend the artistic possibilities for each child.
2. Behind-the-scenes tours
If your child has a favorite food (such as chocolate) or a favorite pastime (such as watching movies), ask whether your local associated venue offers a behind-the-scenes tour. Children can learn a great deal about chemistry and engineering while watching their favorite food being made. Plus, exploring a pastime that they feel fondly about may trigger an interest in a related career.
3. Creatures big and small
Whether your child gravitates toward snakes or lambs, a trip to a zoo, a farm, an animal sanctuary or the like can educate your student and her friends about animal care, biology and environmental conservation. For example, many zoos offer hands-on sessions with creatures that can be safely handled (including goats, spiders and certain sea creatures).
4. Rock band
An education in music can lead to higher test scores, and it can help students hone their motor skills. If your child loves to listen to or play music, why not host a rock band party? Participants can make their own instruments out of materials like construction paper and rubber bands, or they can experiment with writing their own music on any number of computer programs.
5. Science experiments
Science experiments like oobleck (a fluid that moves between liquid and solid when force is applied to it) can entice children of all ages, and in many cases, these projects only require simple (and inexpensive) household ingredients. They are also wonderfully engaging examples of principles in chemistry, physics and so on. For added thematic effect, provide each guest with a lab coat and goggles.
6. Traveling
If you have an older student who enjoys traveling, try theming her celebration around a favorite destination. Serve foods from the local culture, and play games and music native to that country. These are all excellent methods for introducing young people to an unfamiliar culture in a way that is both accessible and fun.
7. Volunteering
This birthday party idea can be tailored to both younger and older children. If your student is already involved in her community, or loves to assist others, volunteering at an animal shelter, a food pantry, or another non-profit can be a fulfilling alternative to a traditional birthday celebration. For children who are just learning the value of service to others, this theme can expand their worldviews in powerful ways.
For more tips and strategies to help your student succeed in school, visit varsitytutors.com.
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