11th Birthday Ideas

Eleven is a tough age. Kids want to feel like adults, but aren't quite ready to actually do adult things. There are many things that 11-year olds can do at their birthday parties that are fun and kid-like, but don't make it seem like a young child's birthday party. Some require more supervision than others so it is important to evaluate what you would like your role to be before suggesting these ideas to your child.

Slumber parties

By age 11 both boys and girls are old enough to have sleep-over birthday parties. Be sure to limit the number of friends your child can invite, as too many energetic 11-year-olds may be a lot to handle. Five or fewer children is probably a good number. You could start the birthday party with pizza or another kid-friendly dinner followed by other activities so as not to have too much unplanned time. The more structure you have for the evening, the smoother it is likely to go for your child and his friends. Ask each child to bring a sleeping bag or blankets and a pillow. Then put the children in a room where you can monitor their activities, but where their late-night talking isn't going to keep you awake.

Scavenger hunts

Age 11 is a great age for a scavenger hunt. They are old enough to be able to follow the clues themselves and they are more independent so you will be able to make the clue locations fairly challenging. Create clues, maybe in the form of riddles or rhymes, that lead the children from one place in or around the house to another. At each location there will be another clue leading them to the next. At the very end, the last clue will have a special surprise for all the party-goers. Party favors or a pizza feast are great things to have waiting for them at the end of their hunt.

Five-dollar formal

This would likely be of interest only to 11-year-old girls. For a five-dollar formal, girls go to the thrift store and select a used or vintage fancy dress. This gives the girls an opportunity to dress up, but not have to spend much money. They could do their hair, put on a little bit of makeup, and wear their dress shoes. The idea is to dress up as if they are going to a formal party. You could then decorate your house to make the girls feel like they are at a grown-up event.

References

• Slumber party ideas.
• Scavenger hunt party ideas.

Resources

• Girl theme party ideas.