I’ve played many party games over the years and after a while I’ve found the perfect mix that work just right every time. There are some games I avoid for various reasons. I’m sometimes asked why I don’t play these games so I wrote this post to explain.
Firstly, I don’t play elimination games. No one is ever out as I like to keep all the children involved throughout. Having children sitting on the sides watching others have fun is no fun.
Up first – pass the parcel*. The main problem with this is that the children get bored easily as they’re not fully engaged. Waiting for the parcel to come around can feel slow, especially for younger children, and the game doesn’t keep everyone actively involved. I’ve only ever played this once on the parents’ request and I could see the children rapidly losing interest. It just doesn’t fit with the engaging style I aim to deliver.
Next is piñata – the worst offender by far. Giving a child a big stick to swing about whilst blindfolded as children edge nearer should be all I need to say about why this is an absolute no.
Musical bumps – safety is of importance at my parties and due to concerns with these I choose not to play this. It’s also an elimination game which as mentioned I avoid.
Musical chairs (anyone remember that?). I’m afraid it’s just old hat now and there are so much better games to play that are more fun and riveting for the children. Again it’s another one that poses safety issues so I keep clear of this.
If you’re interested in what games I do play then read my post here.
* If a birthday child really wants to play this and will be disappointed otherwise then I’ll include it. The parent will have to provide the parcel.