Cinco de Mayo Parties for Kids

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Written by Martin R. Williams

Friday, 06 June 2008

by MartinR.Williams

Cinco de Mayo, unlike Mother's Day or Father's day, is not just a holiday that is primarily promoted by the greeting card business to increase sales. Instead, it celebrates the date May 5, 1862, which was when the United States and Mexico joined forces to help Mexico defeat the French. Therefore, celebrating this holiday with children can be more than just a source of fun; it can be used to teach them about history and politics.

The decorations are an important part of any party

The decor is one of the most important parts of the party. The number five should be displayed prominently throughout the room, and all the colors of the Mexican flag should be represented. At least one actual Mexican flag should be included. Things will liven up by the addition of balloons and streamers.

3 Children love being able to make something different and fun out of ordinary objects. Give each child a paper plate and cup with which to make their own sombero. Glue the cup to the center of the plate, and have the children add pom-poms, string or ribbon to decorate. These crafts are a fun addition to the party and they'll have fun with their new festive hats.

Make Some Maracas

You can also make maracas with paper cups. Simply have the kids fill one cup with beans or something else that clacks when they come together, and then tape a second cup on top of the first one. The open ends of the cups should face each other, letting the items slide between the cups.

Keep It All About Mexico

With a bit of imagination, any child's party game can become a "juego de fiesta." Give a traditional party game a fresh angle and some bright Mexican colors to tranfrom it into a fun Cinco de Mayo activity.

A simple way to incorporate some Hispanic culture into your games is to play musical chairs with Mariachi music. If the children are familiar with Spanish, try playing Pictionary with Spanish words or (more simply) use items that are associated with Mexico like sombreros, or tacos. Try incorporating some Mexican history into your games by playing pin the metal on Benito Juarez (ie Pin the Tail on the Donkey). Explain to the children that Benito Juarez led the Mexicans against the French and it will be a lesson that will stick with them.

Learn Some Folk Dancing

Another great activity idea is to bring in Mexican folk dancers that could show the kids how to perform a dance. To create an even more authentic atmosphere, why not provide skirts for the girls and hats for the boys? The dancers will not only provide a good time, but will also teach the children about some aspects of Mexican heritage.

Keep It Simple

Remember that the children won't remember all the preparation that went into the party, but they will remember all the fun they had together. To ensure that kids love your Cinco de Mayo celebration, keep things simple, have lots of entertainment, and don't run out of food.

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Discover more special kids party ideas and discover many more ideas for decorating, fun for the family, including some great home repair tips by clicking on these links.

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