C Living Magazine July 2014 | страница 7

CPT Bran Dread set's sail!

There are so many things you can do on your own with a Pirate theme, stay on a budget, and still have it looking good. Most of the kids in attendance were six to seven year olds, and they were all entertained fairly equally. A party isn't a party without costumes and props! Set up pirate accessroies in a treasure chest by the door for kids to slip into as they walk into the party.

Get the pirate theme rolling right from the start by sending out fun, themed invitations. Décor is always important to set the theme of a party. You'll find pirate-themed decorations online, or you can go the DIY route and make some yourself. Use rope netting and shells to create a seafaring look. You can find these at your local craft store. Sprinkle the chocolate gold coins, too.

A treasure hunt is a good way to keep the kids occupied while you get the cake or other food prepared. You can set it up outside or inside, depending on the weather and how much room you have. Hide a "treasure" somewhere in your yard.. Fill it with small gifts and trinkets. Then, write a series of notes on paper. Each note contains a clue, which will send them to another location with another clue … and so on and so on, until the treasure is discovered!

Of course no birthday party can be without a birthday cake! If you're into cupcakes, top them with chocolate gold coins, small plastic swords or mini-pirate hats. Be sure to stop by my blog (www.armytankerswife.com) to find all the links to the cute printables. All in all, it adds to the fun when kids see an adult in a theme-appropriate costume. So dress up and have a great time!

Catherine Cavalier

Ahoy, all ye pirates! We hear 'tis ye birthday 'n ye want to throw a parrrty.

Most kids can't get enough of pirates, pirate toys and pirate movies. The pirate theme lends itself quite well to birthday parties!

So, for your pirate's next birthday, grab a cup of grog, slap on an eye patch and get your "Yo ho ho!" ready to go.

Just beware ye're not forced to walk th' plank. Remember … dead men tell no tales.