Most kids (especially those between eight and fourteen) are thrilled at the idea of a slumber party. A sleepover is a chance to spend lots of time playing and laughing with friends and maybe getting to know a new friend or two. Slumber parties are also fun because kids and young teens get a chance to stay up late, eat yummy foods, and just be goofy.
A sleepover can use a bit of party planning to make sure the event goes over well. Kids and teenagers will need supervision, but also independence. Children want the feeling of being more mature by staying up late, but parents need to insure safety.
Ideas for Planning Slumber Parties
There are certain “must-haves” for any slumber party to be successful. For instance, kids are going to expect snacks. There is doubt about that one!
Included below are some simple things to keep in mind when planning a sleepover.
Who Will Be Invited to the Slumber Party?
When planning a sleepover party, the number and ages of guests are important decisions. A close group of four friends may be all the guests needed to maximize the fun. If the guests do not know each other as well, perhaps a couple more might be added so everyone will find a new friend.
A sleepover can become overwhelming with too many kids or teens. For a larger group (Scouts, for instance), having some extra parents spending the night to help may be useful.
Another good idea is to invite guests close in age. This will help make activities more age-specific and interesting for all.
Invitation Ideas for a Sleepover
Invitations can be purchased or homemade. If there will be a theme, the party theme should be reflected in the invitations. Instead of invitations, close friends may prefer just to call or email each other.
On invitations, the following (examples of wording are in parenthesis) may be included:
- Event (“Anna’s Sleepover”)
- Day of the week and Dates (Friday, Nov. ___ until Saturday Nov. __)
- Time (a.m. or p.m.) for start and pick-up (“Party starts at 4:00 p.m. Friday. Pick up time is at 10:00 Saturday morning”)
- Address (or “Anna’s house”)
- Phone number
What to Bring to an Overnighter
It may be nice to include a list of things to bring to the party. Some ideas include:
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Pajamas (and robe, if preferred)
- Slippers
- Flashlight
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal items
- A snack, game, or activity to share (optional)
Parents should also have a list of emergency phone numbers for all guests, just in case.
More Things to Remember for a Great Slumber Party
If a theme will be used, most items at the party should center on that theme. Otherwise, just fun décor, activities, and yummy food are the main considerations.
To do list for a sleepover:
- Pick the guests.
- Decide on invitations and send out early
- Think of games, activities, music, etc.
- Decide what food, snacks, and drinks will be served.
- Consider party favors
- Get prizes for games (optional)
- Be prepared to take lots of photos.
- Decorate
- Have fun!
Sleepover Theme Ideas
Brainstorming ideas for party themes can be a lot of fun. Consider a party based on a song, a time in history, a favorite movie, a sport, or an animal, for instance. Sleepovers are also great for a surprise birthday party, a pizza-making party, or any event that takes a longer amount of time.
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Janienne Jennrich - Janienne Jennrich, Topic Editor for Kids & Teen Parties and for Hair, is an award-winning freelance writer & webmaster.
