Sunday, June 22, 2008

Cinco de Mayo Parties for Kids

By Martin R. Williams

Cinco de Mayo is a great time to have a kid's party -- not only is it a lot of fun, but a great way to teach. This holiday isn't one made up by the greeting card companies, its a celebration of history. On May fifth in 1862, Mexico and the United States worked together to help Mexico get a victory against the French.

Don't forget the decorations for a great party

You can't have ordinary decorations for this party. Add to the festive Mexican atmosphere by having streamers and balloons in the Mexican flag colors. At least one Mexican flag is a must, and the number 5 (in vibrant colors, of course) should be featured about the room.

Any party will be more enjoyable when you add a craft project. Each child could make a sombrero using only paper cups and paper plates. Simply tape the cup to the center of the plate, and the child can decorate it however they see fit. If you'd like, you can provide string, glitter, pom-poms or any other little thing that can be glued or taped on, so each child can create their own unique party hat.

Make Some Maracas

You can also make maracas with paper cups. Simply have the kids fill one cup with beans or something else that clacks when they come together, and then tape a second cup on top of the first one. The open ends of the cups should face each other, letting the items slide between the cups.

Make It About Mexico With a Difference

Add a Mexican twist to any standard party game for children, and it will be the perfect game for Cinco de Mayo. Using only your imagination and a little color will turn even the most basic children's party game into something fabulous.

Giving a children's party a south-of-the-border twist can be simple and fun. Rather than a game of "Pin the Tail on the Donkey", why not play a game of "Pin the Metal on Benito Juarez, the Mexican resistance leader. Mariachi music makes musical chairs a Mexican experience, and even Pictionary takes a Mexican turn if you use Spanish words. If the children don't know enough Spanish, acquaint them with Mexican culture by offering tacos to eat, or sombreros to wear.

Folk Dancing Demonstration

Another great activity idea is to bring in Mexican folk dancers that could show the kids how to perform a dance. To create an even more authentic atmosphere, why not provide skirts for the girls and hats for the boys? The dancers will not only provide a good time, but will also teach the children about some aspects of Mexican heritage.

Sometimes Simple Is Better

If you want to go to a lot of trouble, you can of course -- but keep in mind that the children will primarily remember the fun they had with each other and not the homemade cake shaped like a five colored like the Mexican flag. The party can be quite simple. Keep the games going, and make sure there are plenty of snacks and the kids will remember it being fun (and probably learn a few things about Mexican culture in the process).

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