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children pass the gifts. Stop the music and whoever is holding the present keeps it and moves out of the circle.

Add presents and play until each child has won a prize. When there are only two children left, have them pass the last two presents until the music stops to see which prize they earn.

* Team Treasure Hunt *

Divide the kids into 2 or 3 teams. Set up a chain of hidden clues for each team with a different (but equal) treasure box at the end. Each clue should lead the team to the location of their next clue, and finally to the treasure box.

Clues and treasure boxes should be either labeled with the team number or color coded to match the team so teams stay on the right path. All team members share the loot in their treasure box, but the team who finds their treasure first earns an extra prize. Pin-on award ribbons are great prizes for party games.

* Spoon Relay Race *

Divide the kids into 2 or 3 teams. Have them line up at a starting line and mark a finish line 10-15 feet away (adapt distances for younger or older children). Give the first person in line for each team a plastic spoon and a plastic Easter egg (or ping pong ball or similar).

Each person has to balance the egg on the spoon while moving quickly to the finish line and back, where they hand the spoon and egg to the next team member, who does the same. The first team to have all their members finish wins.

* Limbo *

The limbo is perfect at a luau or beach themed party, but it can also be played at any other birthday party. All you need is a long stick or pole and two people to hold it. It also helps to keep some fun music playing.

Have all the guests line up and hold the limbo pole at about chest height. Each guest passes under the pole, bending backward at the waist. Anyone who touches the pole is out. Keep lowering the pole with each round. The last person to be able to bend under the pole wins.

* Tag *

Birthday parties don't have to be limited to typical birthday party games. Simple, everyday games like tag keep kids occupied and burn off the extra energy that comes from party excitement and sugary birthday cake.

Tag is also a great way to keep the guests busy while waiting for everyone to arrive or while waiting for them to be picked up at the end of the party. Guests can easily join or leave the game at any time.

Whether your birthday party is outdoor or indoor, there are many party games to keep your guests occupied for hours. For best results, plan activities, but don't push the kids to get through them all. Let them play at their own pace and have some time to entertain themselves. Make sure you allow time for the food, birthday cake, and presents and the rest will fall into place.

Learn more about this author, Susan Quilty.
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