by Barb Hopkins

Created on: April 23, 2009   Last Updated: June 17, 2009

Hosting a mystery theme party for children or teens is easy with a little planning and dramatic flair. Mystery themes work well for ages eight and older and provide a party environment where all guests are involved in the action. Mystery theme parties can range from murder to theft to complex puzzles. They are available in a variety of genres and difficulties allowing the host to adapt the mystery to the age and personalities of the guests.

Parents do not panic. Even the most creatively challenged can host a mystery party, as there are several great party kits available at bookstores and online. Online sites like Hostparty.com, Simplifun, and Dramatic Fanatic, all offer mystery theme party kits for children for less than $40.

Purchasing a kit is the easiest way to host a mystery theme party for a group of children or teens. Many online kits can be downloaded so there is no waiting time for the kit to arrive. Kits will include a theme script, invitations, instructions, character profiles, customizable clues, recipes, and thank you cards.

Hostparty.com features murder and non-murder mystery themes for both children and teens. Some mystery themes for children center on pirates, vampires, a haunted house, Vikings, fairies, and an eco-friendly World Animal Rescue. Titles for teens include Curse of the Egyptian Statue, Death of a Vampire, Murder 90210, Murder at Spooky Castle, and a non-murder mystery The White Wizard's Convention. With many titles to choose from, parents are able to select the perfect mystery to suit their child's personality and interests.

When planning and hosting a mystery theme party, it is essential to have your kit at least four to six weeks before the date of the party. Because the kit contains the all the theme information as well as the invitations, this is an important step in the party planning. Both the parent hosts and their child should read the instructions, script, and character profiles several times. Being familiar with this information will not only make the planning easier, but it will help on the night of the party.

Parents need to be prepared to supervise, guide, and encourage the guests during the party. Mystery scripts for younger children will have a role written specifically for an adult. For teens, an adult may take on a small role or simply act as a narrator or host.

* Two weeks before the party.

Mail out the invitations early with a RSVP request so you are able to get an accurate guest count. Most mystery kits

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