WELCOME GUESTS WITH A CRAFT PROJECT Guests arrive at different times, so ease them into the party with a craft. Let them sign in and decorate a newsprint mural with a barn, for instance, at a horse party, or craft something to wear, such as hats or T-shirts. Remember: crafts make excellent party favors. Use our tool or go to Family Crafter for ideas. "We had a tool party for my son's birthday and invited seven boys to build hat racks. Each child received a tool belt, carpentry pencils and rulers. At the party, they got to use the sander and the drill press." � Michele Hausch Party Help

Organize Even the most organized person might have trouble juggling all the details of a well-planned party. Here is a condensed version�a checklist�of party planning tips so a ball doesn't drop. Start planning early. Pick a theme. Choose a location. Write the guest list. Send an invitation. Decorate the party place. Plan a winning menu. Welcome guests with a craft project. Choose party games. Select favors and prizes. Send thank-you notes. Party Help

DOS AND DON'TS Do make guests feel welcome: your child should greet each guest. Do expect guests under age five to bring a parent. Do choose party games that let every child win at least once. Do review gift-opening etiquette with your child before the party. Don't deliver invitations at school; mail them to the guest's home. Don't break the bank: keep costs down by making as many things as you can. Don't let a sibling upstage the birthday child. Don't forget to send thank-you notes. Party Help