How to Make the Fourth of July Fun for Kids

On the Fourth of July everyone typically concentrates on fireworks and barbecues. This year, why not concentrate on making the Fourth of July fun for the kids in your life?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4th Of July Party Supplies
• Fourth Of July Party Favors
• Crayons
• Construction Paper
• Tents
• Crayons
• red, white and blue kites

1. Dress the kids in red, white and blue to help set the mood. Make sure they're wearing comfortable play clothes.

2. Read a children's story about Independence Day and teach the kids songs like "Yankee Doodle Dandy," "America the Beautiful" and "The Star-Spangled Banner."

3. Help the kids with some Fourth of July crafts. You can make wooden firecrackers, a construction paper flag and a fireworks celebration on paper (see Related eHows).

4. Find some Fourth of July coloring books or print some coloring pages from a children's Web site. Make sure each child has red and blue crayons.

5. Set up a tent in the yard. It can serve as a fort, a hideout and a convenient place for afternoon naps.

6. Encourage the kids to help decorate your Fourth of July dinner table. They can gather flowers for a bouquet, sprinkle the table with stars and confetti, and even help set the places.

7. Purchase some sparklers and pop-its for older children if they're available in your area. With proper supervision, these small fireworks can help kids feel like they're part of the party.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep extra red, white and blue T-shirts on hand for kids who may come to the party wearing other colors.
• Have some patriotic party favors on hand for the kids. For girls, try stars-and-stripes hair scrunchies or barrettes; for boys, try red, white and blue shoelaces or stars-and-stripes baseball hats.
• Keep a red, white and blue kite on hand if you have the space and a good strong wind. Once you get it up, the kids can take turns flying it.
• Make certain kids will be properly supervised around any type of fireworks.
• Apply plenty of sunscreen if you'll be spending the day outside. No need to ruin a good party with a sunburn.