Handy Manny Party Supplies

You’ll want to keep your young party guests busy and having fun throughout your party, so plan a few simple games that will keep guests engaged, but be sure to allow for free-play time as well.

Manny’s Marshmallow Relay Race
Split guests into two equal groups and line them up in an open play space that is about 20-30 feet long. Provide each team with a marshmallow and a choice of tools – such as a wrench, a hammer, a set of pliers, or a tape measure. Explain the rules: the first person on each team must balance the marshmallow on the chosen tool while racing to the other end of the playing space and back. If the marshmallow falls off of the tool, the child must pick it up, put it back on, and continue. When the first player returns, he or she must pass the tool and the marshmallow to the next player who follows the same directions. Play continues until all players in the relay have completed the task. Alternatively, you can use inflatable tools so that there is very little danger for the kids!

*Note: For older children, extend the distance, have players spin around in circles before beginning the race, or have them wear oversized shoes during the relay.

Flicker Tag
This is a great game to play at night or in a dark space. One person is “it” and holds a flash light. He or she must try to tag others with the light of the flash light. Be sure to explain that children are not allowed to shine the light in anyone’s face. When a child is tagged with the light, that person becomes “it”, takes the flash light, and tries to tag others.

Flicker Disco
Give each child a flashlight, turn off or dim the lights, and encourage each child to shine the light at the ceiling and shake it to make a disco light. Put on some music and let your party guests move!

Stetch’s Long Jump Challenge
Use masking tape or electrical tape to create a long jump line on the floor. Challenge each child to see how far he or she can jump. Then, help each child measure the distance with a real measuring tape, and mark that child’s jump distance with a personalized sticker label. Give small prizes to all competitors.

Remember, that party favors make a great 'prize' for all the kids. Simply be sure to write their name on the bags or boxes to ensure they know who's bag is who's!