- Consider building your own campfire for a campout.campfire image by iChip from Fotolia.com
Thirteen is an in-between time for most kids; they aren't quite a teenager yet, but not a child either. That makes planning a big party a problem for parents. You want activities that the kids will still want to do and play, without worrying about eye-rolling and kids who refuse to take part. It's a good idea to get some feedback from your child and her friends before you start planning. As long as your kids like the idea, you have plenty of options, whether the party is coed or same-sex. - For girls, throw an elaborate slumber party to celebrate their 13th birthday. Give the birthday girl full rein over your closet and makeup collection, letting her pick out products and clothes to play around with. Ask other mothers to donate any makeup samples or makeup they no longer use. Serve food such as popcorn, candy and pretzels and let the girls relax. If your 13-year-old isn't into makeovers, let her pick out PG-13-rated horror movies from your local video store or let her pick her own activities. Letting the girls release their inner rock star by playing "Rock Band" or "Guitar Hero" and hosting competitions also works at a slumber party.
- Thirteen-year-old boys might not like the slumber-party idea, but they might change their mind when you move the party outside. Ask for help from other parents, friends and family members and gather up as many tents as possible. Set the tents up outside and surround them around a small bonfire if your neighborhood allows it or a grill or outdoor stove. Let the boys roast marshmallows and hot dogs outside and take turns telling stories late at night. Give each boy a makeshift survival kit instead of a gift bag, stocked with a small flashlight, compass and other outdoor items.
- If you have a group of boys and girls, throw a luau-themed birthday party. Check the dollar stores and party stores for inexpensive coconut-shaped plastic cups, flowered leis and fake grass skirts. Ask the kids to wear shorts and summery outfits and pass out the decorations as inexpensive party favors they can take home after the party. Serve hot dogs, fresh fruit, Spam and nonalcoholic margaritas. Then let the kids challenge each other to a limbo contest by playing Hawaiian-themed music. Even if your 13-year-old loses the contest, he'll still have fun watching his friends try to win.
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