Host a costume playground party for the children in your community this Halloween! Throwing a playground party is a great idea for schools, churches, and communities to provide a safe place to celebrate.
Whether you’re a parent, PTO member or a HOA board member, you can help make the most out of your play space by hosting a fun, interactive playground party! The best part is you don’t need a lot of preparation or special equipment. In fact, most families and organizations will already have everything they need.
Playgrounds are great places for kids to stretch their muscles and their minds. Dressing up adds an extra dimension and may encourage children to be more outgoing. Costumes are also a great way to build confidence, vocabulary, emotional, and social skills. Planning a costume playground party challenges children to practice dramatic play and use equipment as props.
Playground Party Themes
- Space: This theme is fun because it’s open to interpretation. Children will show up as astronauts, aliens and you’ll probably see one or two ‘space princesses.’
- Jungle: This theme is a great way to avoid gender stereotypes and encourage truly active play.
- Cops and Robbers: Children divide into two groups, making this perfect for more competitive children or for team activities.
- Superhero Showdown: Superheroes are particularly popular right now. Be sure to encourage kids and parents to take an rule from the Incredibles and impose a ‘no capes’ rule.
Playground Party Safety Tips
Playground safety should always be the number one priority when children are involved. Provide guidelines and let parents know these are great tips to keep in mind whenever their children hit the playground. Avoid loose clothing, ribbons, hoodies with strings and other garments that can become entangled on equipment.
Footwear
Check your shoes. Flipflops, sandals, and Crocs are a convenient choice when you’re heading out the door. However, they are major no-nos on the playground. Children should always wear closed toed footwear that fastens securely with either lace or Velcro.
Weather
Keep the weather in mind. Children overheat extremely easily, costumes should play second fiddle to comfort. Try to pick a playground party theme that matches the season. Allow children to layer during cold weather and avoiding heavy clothes during summer.
Limit Certain Types of Clothing
Dress up but skip long dresses. Children should try to wear clothes that let them jump, climb and explore. Long dresses, pants that restrict movement or clothes that just won’t stay on, should be eschewed in favor of sturdier clothing.
Keep these tips and tricks handy this Halloween season to play your own fun playground party!
