Age characteristics
Children in this age group are comfortable with rules, taking turns, and playing games, so Physical Activity parties such as a Bowling Party, Martial Arts Party, Gymnastics Party are perfect for this age. They are also developing coordination skills and will be excited to put them to use in games geared towards these skills.
Guest list
Invite schoolmates and friends. Just remember that some children at this age prefer to only have children of their own sex at their parties so don’t be alarmed if this is the case.
Length of party
1 1/2 - 2 hours
Entertainment for age
At this age, entertainment that involves hands-on activities such as baking/decorating cakes, sand art, or painting are great. Kids feel a sense of accomplishment, especially when they are at a phase in life where they begin to develop and perfect specific individual skills.
Games
Simon Says
Safety for age
Make sure to have all the phone numbers of the guests’ parents.
Karate Party
Birthday Child’s Starring Role
Your child kicks and chops as the Master at this martial arts party. If possible, present your child with an honorary black belt for the day.
Party Settings
Reserve a space at a local studio if possible. Otherwise, transform your home into your very own dojo with bamboo mats, paper lanterns, and white balloons.
Use Karate Invitations to start the party mood before the big day.
Party Fun & Games
Let your karate sensei provide a demonstration of his skills as well as an introductory lesson in basic karate stances and moves. Encourage the children to create their own stances to match titles such as Crane on Tree Limb or Polishing Mirror.
Party Leader
Hire an expert, either a teacher at a nearby school or a good friend with a zest for playing zen master, to instruct party guests on the tradition of karate.
Party Tunes
Karate is a spiritual activity as much as a method of defense. Respect that aspect when you choose your musical selections. Check out a local music store for meditation music that will help your young masters’ concentration.
Party Refreshments
Provide plenty of snacks to fuel your future black belts’ energy. If sushi isn’t a favorite of your child’s how about some california rolls? Those look asian enough without the raw fish flavor. How about Chicken Teriyaki? Black licorice lace candies also seem appropriate when they look like mini black belts.
Party Finale
Invite each party guest to step out on to the mat and demonstrate his favorite karate move of the afternoon.
Birthday Presents & Favors
Present your guests with black belts or headbands. These personalized zipper pulls are also a great accessory to their backpacks.
Party Tips
Not every party guest will emerge as the next Karate Kid. Instead of focusing on perfect performances, just make sure that each child participates in the fun.
