Showing posts sorted by date for query toy party. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query toy party. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

List of Baby Shower Themes - Over 60 Inspirational Themes to Celebrate Your Baby on the Way

Find the Perfect Baby Shower Theme to Welcome You Little One on the Way
We all have those moments, when you just can't think of a perfect theme for your upcoming baby shower, or need some inspiration to figure out the look for your best gal pal who's about to pop. Here's a huge list of over 60+ Baby Shower themes sure to get you inspired and ready to start planning that special celebration for the new mom-to-be:

A Star is Born - You can already tell your little one will head to the silver screen! Throw a Hollywood style baby shower fit for any new star. This theme is easily adaptable to the red carpet look, or vintage-style Hollywood glam.

Alphabet - An Alphabet shower is the perfect place to start off your parenting experience. Vintage wooden ABC blocks, or ABC cards are an easy start to a look for this shower. Or, if you'd like to be creative, assign your guests a letter (between A-Z) and have the bring a baby gift that starts with that letter.

Around the Clock Baby Shower - As a new parent will soon learn, babies need things around the clock, so assign an hour of the day (and night) to each guest and be ready when ever the little one may be up!

Baby on the Move - Babies these days are sure on the move, even well before they learn to crawl. This shower is the perfect way to help the new parents stock up on things that will keep the baby on the move-- from strollers to front packs, diaper bags to portable cribs. New parents may not want to slow down once the new one arrives, and this shower will keep them going!

Baby Sprinkle - A baby sprinkle is a term used for a "light" shower. It's perfect for the mom who's about to have her 2nd, 3rd or even 4th child, and needs a little celebration, or a great way to celebrate a new one for the mom who doesn't want a big "fuss." The theme can be used year round, but if you want to play on the word sprinkle, get out your umbrella and host this in the Spring when sprinkles may be in the forecast!

Blankies and Bedtime - This theme is the perfect lullaby for any baby to be. Have guests bring gifts associated with bedtime and the nursery like a soft blankie, traditional bedtime story, sweet teddy bear, bedding and more.

Bun in the Oven - Here's the perfect shower for those who like to bake. Spread out a bunch of home baked goodies and shower the mom-to-be and her bun in the oven with gifts, treats and all those things a new mom will need in the kitchen with her baby: bottles, food mashers, bibs, high chair, baby spoons, and more.

Bundle of Joy - The perfect baby shower theme for those cold months when everyone wants to bundle up. Have guests bring soft blankets, baby quilts, winter clothes, hats and more that will help keep the little one warm and toasty.

Baby Circus / Cirque de Bebe - When you become a new mom, you'll be a clown, a juggler, and a ringmaster too! Celebrate the baby-to-be with a sweet circus shower sure to be filled with laughs and smiles.

Diaper Shower - A new mom can never have enough diapers once the baby has arrived. Shower her with a diaper theme, and provide gifts that will stock the new baby's changing table.

Eco-Baby - Our eco-friendly world is filled with wonderful baby products that environmentally conscious moms will love. Throw a "green" shower to ensure a long and healthy life for the new little one.

Extra Extra: Announcing a New Baby - Calling all reporters and journalists, it's time for a baby shower to celebrate a little one's arrival. Shower the new mom-to-be with parenting magazines, books, videos and anything else to keep her going through those late night feedings.

Fashionista Baby - We all have a friend that just loves clothes. Here's the perfect baby shower theme just in line with the new mom's taste. Throw a little fashionista shower and fill the new baby's wardrobe with the latest onesies and outfits fit for the runway.

For Parents Only Baby Shower - Yes, baby showers should be all about the baby, right? Well, maybe not. What about the tired, exhausted parents? They need to be showered with love too! Have a baby shower "for parents only" where the theme focuses on being a new parent and surviving! Guests can bring gifts of new parenting books, gourmet coffee for those wee hours in the night, and loads and loads of parenting advice to help their close friends adjust to their new life of parenthood.

Gender Reveal Shower - Many couples want to wait until the end to find out if they are having a girl or boy.... and some want to make a game out of it for friends and family. A gender reveal theme is lots of fun for those gambling friends who love to throw a few wagers down. Have them place their bets at the party and wait until the baby arrives for pay out, or reveal the secret at the party itself, it's up to you!

It's a Jungle Baby Shower - Your baby-to-be will be ready for a life of adventure if you start it off with a jungle theme shower. Children's storybooks are filled with tales of lions, tigers, giraffes and more - bring them to life with this wild baby shower theme.

Little Birdie or Feather Your Nest Shower - Sweet little birdies, snuggled in their nest, it's the perfect theme for a baby shower. Folks can bring gifts to help you fluff your nest and prepare for your little birdie on the way.

Little Bug - Yes, bugs can be sometimes a bit creepy-- but a little bug, is always adorable! This theme is perfect for an outdoor shower, or possibly a picnic to celebrate your little bug on the way.

Little Camper - Outdoorsy couples will love this Little Camper baby shower theme. Prepare your new one on the way to be ready for the great outdoors you love with having guests bring camp-inspired gifts, from little flannel pj's, to a pack perfect for carrying a little one on a hike.

Little Cowboy/Cowgirl - Round up all your friends for a wild west baby shower to celebrate your rough and tumble little cowboy or cowgirl on the way.

Little Cupcake - Who wouldn't want to come to a baby shower filled with sweets and treats and cupcakes galore? Celebrate the little cupcake on the way by having a desert shower with friends and family.

Little Diva - With all the kicking and moving in your belly, you can already tell, this little baby will be quite a diva. Whether the little one will be the next opera star, American Idol, or Hollywood wonder, a diva party is the perfect theme to shower her with attention!

Little Ducky - Bath time with baby is always the best. Throw a Little Ducky shower filled with those sweet yellow ducks, and lots of Goldfish snacks for lots of quacking fun. Have guests bring gifts for the baby to use at bath time; a small tub, bath toys, soft towels, sensitive skin creams and more.

Little Einstein - It's a no-brainer! Your little one on the way is going to be smart! Throw a Little Einstein party and fill the nursery with educational toys, books, posters and more for a life of learning ahead!

Little Flower - Pretty posies, little daisies, or a sweet rose are all perfect looks for a flower themed baby shower. This shower is perfect for an outdoor brunch or lunch on a warm Spring or Summer day.

Little Lady - A string of pearls, fancy shoes and a small purse -- your baby on the way will grow up to be a fine little lady someday. Shower the mother-to-be with all things girly to let her know how special this little lady will be!

Little Ladybug - A Little Ladybug theme is the perfect for a garden shower in the Spring. The flowers are in bloom, and sweet red with black polka dot ladybugs are buzzing around. Bring gifts for the baby that celebrate the season and the outdoors.

Little Man (Mustache) - One day, your little man will be all grown up and off in the world. The good news is you get to spend the next 18 plus years nurturing him the whole way! Throw a Little Man shower filled with mustaches, bow ties, and haberdashery to welcome him into the world.

Little Mermaid/Under the Sea - Here's the perfect theme if you live close to the sea, or just dream of the ocean! Seashells, oysters with pearls, turquoise waters and treasures under the sea are definitely the look for this theme. Perhaps have your guests bring gifts for the baby relating to bath time or summers spent at the beach.

Little Monkey - It feels like the little baby is swinging from the vines in your belly! Your little monkey may be active, but he will sure be loads of fun! This theme is perfect for any couple who loves a little monkey'ing around. Guests can bring gifts perfect for playtime to carry on the monkey theme.

Little Monster - No worries, your little one won't be a terror, but he may be a little mischeivious monster sometimes! This theme is perfect for cute monsters only-- ready to have some fun. Guests can bring sweet plushies, soft blankies and perhaps silly storybooks and toys perfect for your little monster-to-be.

Little Peanut - Think sweet elephants and tasty little peanuts, this theme can have a vintage circus parade look filled with fluttering banner, tooting trumpets, swirls of cotton candy and bags of salty peanuts welcoming your new one to the world.

Little Prince - Your little boy needs a royal welcome with a Little Prince shower. Be inspired by the classic French novel, Little Prince, or take cues from the royal family in England to set the stage for your shower. Have guests bring gifts fit for a royal prince!

Little Princess - Your sweet princess needs a royal welcome with a Little Princess shower. There is so much princess inspiration to get you started, from Disney princess to fairy princesses, exotic princesses to royalty from England. Pick your favorite and set the mood for a royal affair.

Little Rockstar - The stage is where you feel your little one will be, celebrate his welcome to the world with his first concert, a Little Rockstar Shower! Have guests bring musical instruments for children, rattles, shakers and loads of music to play from morning to night.

Little Sailor - A nautical inspired baby shower is perfect for your little sailor-to-be. Tiny sailboats, anchors and a sweet sailor hat are the perfect look for this gathering. Have guests bring gifts for the aby relating to bath time fun or summers at the beach to play along with the theme.

Little Surfer - Time to hang ten and have a relaxed surfer-style baby shower for your beach baby-to-be! Perfect for little surfer dudes or surfer chicks, there's nothing like a casual gathering with soft tunes and cool waves. Have guests bring gifts to get baby ready for summertime fun and days on the beach or in the sandbox.

Mommy & Baby Spa - Moms-to-be will love some spa time relaxation with friends and family before the new one arrives on the scene. Flickering candles and zen tunes will set the mood for this calming event. Have guests bring gifts that will pamper the new mom and new baby-on-the-way.

Nursery Rhyme Baby Shower - Mary had a Little Lamb, Humpty Dumpty, and all Mother Goose's rhymes together will create a sweet, memorable shower to welcome the new baby. Have guests bring classic nursery rhyme stories, stuffed animals and more to bring the theme to life.

Nursery Shower - Your pregnant friend is frazzled, and would love help in getting the nursery ready for the new baby on the way. A Nursery shower is the perfect way to celebrate. Make it a work party and have all help decorate the space, or if it's already set up, have guests bring gifts to make the nursery come alive!

Our Little Glamour Girl - Glitter, Jewels and lots of bling is needed to celebrate this glamour girl-to-be! This party is all about sumptuous fabrics, chandeliers and lots of sparkles. Surround your little baby-on-the-way with gifts of soft blankets, jewel studded shoes and engraved silver treasures, and have a shower where the memories will last a lifetime.

Polka Dot Shower - Power to the polka dot! This playful theme is easy to pull off, just mix and match polka dots patterns, add some balloons and a dash of sprinkles and your set! This festive theme is the perfect way to welcome your little one to the world.

Ready to Pop Baby Shower - Here's the perfect thing for your pal who's about to pop! Fill your party space with balloons and pop some champagne (or sparkling cider) and celebrate the new one on the way!

Ruffles and Lace - This sweet, vintage-style theme is perfect for the girly girl who wants the most for her little girl-to-be. Ask guests to bring gifts with ruffles, lace, vintage style or sentimental charm to honor the new baby.

Shower Based on a Popular Children's Book - We all remember our favorite books from growing up. We wanted it to be read to us over and over again. Bring out that beloved book and theme your baby shower after the story. Some favorites are Goodnight Moon, Pat the Bunny, Guess How Much I Love You, Goodnight, Gorilla, and more.

Sip and See - A Sip and See is the perfect party to celebrate the baby after he or she has been born. Some moms-to-be may not want all the fuss of a shower, but prefer to host an open house when they are ready for guests after the baby is born. It's the perfect time for friends and family to stop by, meet the new one, and toast to the new parents.

Sports Shower - If sports is your-thing, then a Sports baby shower will score big points! Convinced your baby will be the next All-Star? Do you have a little slugger on your hands? How about the next star quarterback? Guests can bring gifts perfect for the sporty family; from toys to sports equipment (for babies!)

Storybook / Book Shower - Build your babies library with a wonderful Storybook or Book baby shower. Go with a library-like look and fill your space with old books, vintage letters, poems, and more. Have guests bring their favorite childhood book to have plenty to ready to this little one after he is born.

Sweet Bee - The buzz is out, a baby is on her way and it's time to celebrate. A Sweet Bee theme is perfect for an outdoor gathering. Honeycomb yellows, and a dash of black is a winning color combination for this theme.

Sweet Pea / Little Gardener - If you love the outdoors or love to garden, a Sweet Pea shower is the perfect theme for you and your green thumb! Have guests bring gifts with a garden theme, a flowery dress, an outdoor blanket, a sun hat, or even a commemorative tree to mark the birth of your little one.

Teddy Bear Baby Shower - Who doesn't remember their sweet teddy bear from growing up? Have a Teddy Bear Picnic and shower your baby-to-be with sweet stuffed animals.

The Lion King - "The lion sleeps tonight..." at least that's the hope for any new parent. A Lion King themed baby shower is perfect for your soon-to-be king of your life. Play off of the classic tale with your styling and decoration inspiration.

The Little Foodie - In our world of organic foods, gourmet delights and sweet treats, there's bound to be a foodie born at any moment! Help inspired your new one to love cuisine with a Little Foodie baby shower. Have guests bring gifts associated with the kitchen and baby food, such as bibs, baby food appliances to make your own, recipe books for the organic parent, subscription to healthy baby foods, high chair and more!

Throughout the Year Baby Shower - Throughout the year, your newborn will need all sorts of different types of gadgets and clothes to survive the seasons. Have a shower that celebrates the baby years with a Throughout the Year Baby Shower. Give each guest a month and have them bring a gift the baby will need at that time of year. For instance, in December, the little one will need the perfect holiday outfit, in March, a raincoat will do, and in August, perhaps a sunhat or two!

Tiny Toes - Everyone oohs and aahs when they see a newborns sweet little toes. Make this the theme of your baby shower and celebrate all the mini-things that we love so much about babies.

Toy Shoppe - A little toy train, a wind up truck, a vintage robot, a stuffed teddy bear, a Toy Shoppe theme is filled with color and fun and perfect for your baby shower. Have guests bring gifts to fill your little one's toy chest. Family and friends will love the playful fun.

Twinkle Little Star - This traditional lullaby also makes a wonderful baby shower theme. Hang stars from the ceiling, or have an evening gathering outdoors to welcome your new little one to the world.

Vintage Baby Shower - Find those baby heirlooms and celebrate your baby-on-the-way with a Vintage Baby Shower. Have friends and family bring memories of their childhood to share stories of days passed, and adventures to look forward to.

Welcome to the World - For the parents that love to travel, have a Welcome to the World baby shower. Decorate with a travel theme in mind, vintage suitcases, luggage tags, travel posters and more and prepare the new one for a life of adventure. Have guests bring gifts related to traveling with a baby to match the theme.

Whooo's Having a Baby? A Woodland Wonder Baby Shower - Cute little woodland critters are a whimsical and playful look for a baby shower. This shower can be held outdoors, or if the weather is cooler, light a fire in the fireplace, and have a cozy shower in woodland style.

Zoo - Have a baby shower filled with wild animals, cute little birds, big elephants and silly monkeys. Sometimes life as a new parent can feel a like a zoo, but calm the mom-to-be by letting her know her friends and family are there to support her whenever needed. Everyone loves a day at the zoo!







Monday, March 25, 2013

Nursery Rhyme Party Invitation and Decoration Ideas

Nursery Rhyme Birthday and Baby Shower Invitation by B.Nute productions on Zazzle
A sweet Nursery Rhyme party is the perfect theme for a baby shower or a little one's birthday! Head on over to my shop for the perfect Nursery Rhyme invitations to set the mood for your vintage gathering. A gingham print, nursery rhyme imagery and precious poem will get your guests excited for the fun to be had. Below are also some party decoration ideas to get you on your way to planning the day.

Nursery Rhyme Party Decoration Ideas

Table Decorations
Head to the local toy store and find some stuffed animals, dolls and the like that could represent a specific nursery rhyme. For instance, a sheep for Little Boy Blue, a king for Sing a Song of Six Pence, a lamb and doll for Mary Had a Little Lamb, etc. Print out the rhyme onto a small piece of card stock, punch a hole in the top of the card stock tag, and string it to the stuffed animal/doll. Place these items in the center of the table on top of a few complimentary colored receiving blankets for a festive table decoration. After the party, this table decoration can be a great gift for the birthday boy or girl!

Nursery Rhyme Imagery Around the House
Check out an assortment of nursery rhyme books at the library. Go to the local copy shop and make color copies of the best images from the books. Enlarge the images if needed. Pick up inexpensive frames at Ikea, Target or a local drugstore, and cut and place the images within the frames. As an alternative to frames, the photocopies could be cut and pasted onto different pastel card stock. Holes could be punched in the top corners and ribbon strung through. These hanging images or the framed images can be scattered through out the areas where the party will be held (kitchen, front foyer table, buffet table, etc.)

Music and Ambiance
Check out an assortment of nursery rhyme CD’s at the library, or purchase a few on Amazon to add music to your party. Perhaps create a playlist and mix in some classical music as well as your child’s favorite songs.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Free Printable Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt Game

Free Printable Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt Game from B.Nute productions
Send your party guests on a fun Teddy Bear scavenger hunt at your Teddy Bear Party/Teddy Bear Picnic with this free printable Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt map/game.

Teddy needs to find his den, and it's each guests' job to help him. Set up a small (or large depending on age of the crowd) obstacle course/hunt in your yard, house or party space and get searching.

How to Play
Create a "course" in your yard or your house with the 7 "stops" or locations on the map. At each location, you can have the guests either do the activity or if it's a very young crowd, they can pick up a "souvenir" or trinket from each spot. Here are some ideas for each location:

  • Pick Some Berries - At this spot you can have some real or pretend berries that they can find/gather and put in a berry basket or eat!
  • Find a Picnic Basket - Once they find the picnic basket, have them look inside and pull out a trinket to show they have been at the basket-- It could be a paper napkin, or a "sandwich" or some other picnic type item.
  • Catch a Fish - You could play the old fashioned game of catching a small fish toy with a magnetic fishing pole... or just have a bucket of toy fish the children can reach into and take one.
  • Climb a Tree - Climbing a tree may not be appropriate for certain ages, but you can set up a little space the guests can "climb" on (i.e, soft pillows, a backyard play structure) to act like the tree.
  • See a Hiker - Either have a person pose as a hiker, or put a small picture of a hiker hidden somewhere where the guests have to spot.
  • Eat Some Honey - Put out a little cracker and honey for the kids to nibble on. If the guests are too young to eat honey and/or do not like it, you can put a substitute sweet or a few "honey" flavored teddy grahams to nibble on.
  • The Bear's Den - Create a nice cozy area to act as the den. Set up blankets, and pillows and fun place to tumble and play.


Now start setting up your hunt and have a beary good time!

Printable Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt Game/Map
Free Printable Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt Game by B.Nute productions
Instructions for Printing Teddy Bear Scavenger Hunt Game
1. Select the link above, and print out the map on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper. Print on card stock to give the map some weight.
2. Hand out a map to each guest. Follow the instructions above for playing the game.

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

A Vintage Truck Party - Ideas Galore!

A Vintage Truck Party Invitation and Inspiration by B.Nute productions
A good ol'fashioned Truck Party is the perfect theme for your boy's birthday. An old truck, some vintage signage, some toy trucks to play with... this party can be as simple or as elaborate as you'd like! I've been gathering all sorts of party ideas for your Vintage-style Truck Party over on Pinterest, so be sure be sure to head over and check them out... but in the meantime, here are some high lights.

Paper Goods

Truck Party Printable Paper Goods by B.Nute productions
Head on over to my Etsy shop for the full suite of Truck Party printables-- from invitation to thank you, this theme is covered with vintage-style charm!

Decoration Ideas

A classic truck parked prominently near your party space would be a perfect greeting for guests to your truck party.... but trucks can be hard to come by. If you do have access to a truck here are ways to incorporate it into the party:
  • Use the truck hatch as a comfy seating area. Fill with pillows, blankets, and maybe a few books or toys.
  • Use as a prop to take party pics.
  • Pull down the hatch and fill the rear of the truck with your buffet of food.
  • Take the party on a "truck" ride... like a hay ride.
Here are some other ideas as well:
  • Vintage Gas Station tin signs
  • Old Toy Trucks
  • Toy (or real) Gas Pump
  • Old Posters of Gas Stations or Truck Stops or Highway signage
Menu Ideas
Design your food area to be a truck spot, where guests can "filler on up" till their ready to roll again! Make signs like a truck stop, with an area to fill up on gas (liquids), oil (munchies), tune up (food).

Game Ideas

There's nothing like a cut out cardboard box, designed to be a truck to some fun relay races. Or, race toy trucks (from match box size to larger trucks depending on age.) Another option is for the kids to create their own highway or roads and rest stops with lots of sidewalk chalk and some cement. Lastly, a sandbox filled with toy trucks is a great play area for young ones.

Goodie Bag/Gift Ideas

Toy Truck
Truck ornament
Favorite Truck Book

Friday, August 24, 2012

Free Printable World Explorer Indiana Jones Scavenger Hunt Game

Indiana Jones/World Explorer Scavenger Hunt Game from B.Nute productions
I had so much fun designing this Indiana Jones inspired World Explorer Scavenger Hunt Game! This free printable game is a great way to get the kids at your Indiana Jones party running around and hunting for items.

I've created a printable scavenger hunt card with the list of items to find. Just head to a local toy store or find the objects around your house (i.e., hat, rubber snake, cup/chalice, halloween skull, etc.) Now hide the items through out your party space (house/yard or both). For older kids, you could even have them look around the neighborhood to find the hidden items.

Once hidden, the explorers can use the clue cards to find the items. For items hidden in harder spots, you can put detailed information about how to find the items on the back of the card. Or if you'd rather, you can use the blank cards to come up with your own clues.

Now it's time to get exploring. Beware of snakes and hidden booby traps!

Free Printable World Explorer Scavenger Hunt Cards by B.Nute productions
Free Printable World Explorer Scavenger Hunt Clue Cards by B.Nute productions - Set One
Free Printable World Explorer Scavenger Hunt Clue Cards by B.Nute productions - Set Two

Instructions for Printing Your World Explorer/Indiana Jones Scavenger Hunt Game

1. Select links above and print out from your browser. Use card stock to give the game cards and clue cards some weight.
2. Cut each game card and clue card out.
3. Hand out at party and start the hunt!

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Last Minute Oscar Party Ideas

and the Oscar goes to... Treasury on Etsy
Sunday night is the big night! If you aren't heading to a party, why not have one yourself. I know, it's last minute to be planning an Oscar Party-- but that's no problem! Below are a whole bunch of great links to Oscar Party madness for a simple, yet award winning affair!

Twig and Thistle's Free Printable Oscar Party Goods
Free Printable Oscar Decor
Check out these great printable Oscar invitations from Twig and Thistle! Just accessorize with more red, white and black and your set!


Hollywood Star Tag from B.Nute productions
Free Printable Hollywood Star Tags
Want to put together a quick goodie bag for your guests? Fill a bag with a ballot, a pencil, a bag of microwave popcorn and perhaps a candy or two, then tie with this Hollywood Star tag from yours truly!

Oscar Ballot
Don't forget to print out your Oscar Ballots for your guests!

Oscar Menu
I love creating an Oscar menu to match the Best Films. This year, there's seemingly a large number of nominated films, 10 to be exact... and since unfortunately haven't seen over 1/2 the films, this task of creating a menu seemed quite daunting. Thank goodness for the internet! I did a quick search and found a great article full of menu ideas on Epicurious.com: Best Picture Inspired Menu Ideas. I love their descriptions. For True Grit, they provide a "Feast Fit for Cowboys." For 127 Hours, "Food as Fuel", and Toy Story 3, "A Day-Care Finger Food Menu for Kids of All Ages". Very fun.

Enjoy the show!

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Toy Party Game Ideas


You have a bunch of kids coming over for a Toy Party... here are some great games to play for loads of toy fun!

Toy Scavenger Hunt
Hide recognizable toys around the house, and provide clues to getting to each. At the last toy, have a small toy prize for each player. Here are some clue ideas:
1. Hide a teddy bear in the kitchen. Then provide the clue, "This toys loves his honey... you'll find him somewhere near the cereal and his favorite sticky sweet treat."
2. Hide a ball in a bathroom. Provide the clue, "This toy loves to bounce. If you don't find it quickly, it may just bounce it's way into the bathtub.
3. Hide a doll in a bed of a room. Provide the clue, "This sweet girl loves to take long naps. You can find her under a pink blanket sound asleep."

Toy Pick Up Race
Here's a race that would be fun to have not only at a party, but everyday your house is a mess! Scatter loads of toys in a room, and close the door. Hand a team of players a large bag. Set a timer and open the door to have the kids pick up all the toys on the floor. When done record the time. Now rescatter the toys and set another team out to beat the time!

Stack the Blocks
Whether it's wood blocks or empty cardboard shoe boxes... have kids build the tallest stack, then knock it down when done!

Toy Relay Race
Split the guests into 2 teams. Set up a course around your yard, and scatter one toy per guest along the way. Each team is given a wagon. Each team member now must pull a wagon through the course and pick up 1 toy along the way. The last person needs to pick up the last toy, and pull the wagon to the end. The key is not to have the toys fall out of the wagon while they are racing to the end!

Guess the Number of Toys
Set out a couple jars full of small toys, for instance one filled with small Army men, one filled with rubber balls, etc. Have each guest guess how many toys are in each jar. The closest guess wins the jar of toys.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Free Printable Toy Treat Bag Label

Free Printable Toy Treat Bag Label by B.Nute productions
Having a toy party soon? Be sure to print this free toy shop printable treat bag label for your goodie bags. Fill a bag with small toys and treats that all kids will love!

Free Printable Toy Shoppe Treats Bag Label by B.Nute productions
Instructions for Making Toy Treats Bag Labels
1. Select link above, and print out label from your browser. I suggest using a heavier card stock to give the label some weight.
2. Trim the edges/extra paper.
3. Fill a standard sized sandwich bag with goodies.
4. Fold label in half, and staple to bag.

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Toy Party: Decoration, Menu Ideas and More

Toy Shoppe Fun Party Inspiration Board
A party full of toys-- what could be better? Below are some ideas for your vintage inspired Toy Shoppe Fun Party filled with your favorite toys from the past and present!

Decoration Ideas
Inspiration from Famous Toy Shops
Head over to FAO.com to check out one of the world famous toy shops or rent some great toy inspired movies such as Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium or Big (to see shots of FAO Schwartz in New York City.) With those colorful images in mind, now fill your party space with the same amount of fun! Red, yellow and blue crepe paper, balloons galore, and lots and lots of toys!

Vintage Toys Galore
Head to the attic and pull out those old toys. Arrange them on the buffet table, or down the center of the dining table as a runner. A jack-in-the box, a doll, some tin cards, and more... the more colorful, the better!

Jars of Toys
Jars can be a great way to display tiny toys. Fill some glass jars of army men, jacks, rubber balls, dominoes, and other small toys. The jars will look great on the buffet next to plates of treats.

Board Games
Hang board games on the walls above the serving area, or other areas of the party for colorful fun. Candyland, Sorry, or vintage board games will look great.

Invitation and Matching Paper Goods
Toy Shoppe Fun Party Goods Collection by B.Nute productions
Head over to B.Nute productions etsy shop for a full collection of printable Toy Shop Party goods - invitations, thank you postcards, cupcake toppers, menu cards, goodie bag tags and more!

Menu Ideas
What fun kids will have if you pack small box lunches full of yummy treats - Here are some toy inspired menu ideas:
ChooChoo Cheese Sandwiches - Make cheese or meat and cheese sandwiches and cut them with a train cookie cutter for a train shaped sandwich.
Bouncy Fruit Balls - ball up some melon, watermelon, apples and more to create a bouncy ball inspired fruit salad.
Dollies Favorite Chips and Dips - Pick out some fun flavored chips and dips and call them dollies favorite!

Bowl of Teddy Bears - Fill some bowls full of different flavored Teddy Grahams for easy munching.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Retro Party Props- Tin Toys and More

Tin Toy Arcade Toys and Party Props with Invitations by B.Nute productions
I'm a huge vintage toy fan! I just love the look. There's one online spot I can't seem to get enough of... a great place for toys for gifts, goodie bags, and party props. Have you seen Tin Toy Arcade? I'm sure you'll love it too. Here's just a few prop ideas and/or gift ideas for your themed party.

1. Circus Party

4. Old MacDonald Had a Farm Party
Old MacDonald Had a Farm by B.Nute productions

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Under the Sea Party: Game Ideas

Throwing an enchanted Under the Sea Party? Looking for ideas on how to entertain the crowd? Look no further! Here are a bunch of game ideas perfect to get those little mermaids and fish tired out!

Under the Sea Party Games
Fish for Treasure
I remember this game from my elementary school fair way back when! How fun it was to see what I would "catch" on my fishing rod! To play this game, all you need is a tub/large box or container, some pretend fishing rods, toys and magnets, and there you'll have your very own fishing hole!

Create some simple fishing rods with long sticks and a sting tied to the end. At the end of the string, tie a magnet. Now attach another magnet to a small toy. Fill a large tub (i.e., plastic container, or cardboard box) with all the small toys with magnets. Have children line up and fish for a toy!

Jelly Fish Relay
Set up an obstacle course around your yard, park or party space. Make the obstacles that are part of the course named after areas in the sea, such as: a coral field - a bunch of chairs that they need to zig zag through; an underwater cave - a play tube the kids need to crawl though; the deep abyss - a fold up table the kids need to crawl under; a jelly fish swarm - hang many crepe paper strings from the ceiling or branches of a tree that they have to "swim" through; the tide pools - put out a kiddie pool with only an inch of water in it that they need to skip through; etc. Have fun with the areas and ideas. Now simply line the kids up and have them run through the course!

Shell Hunt
Think how much fun kids have on Easter for an Easter egg hunt. Why not use the same concept, and just replace eggs with shells. The kids will love to gather the shells, and have them keep them as part of another craft or a goodie bag gift.

King Neptune Says
Here's a spin on Simon Says... same rules, just make Simon into King Neptune. If you can find a crown, a turquoise cape, and Neptune's trident for the "new" Simon, even better!

Under Water Dress Ups
Kids love dress ups, so why not set out a box of Under the Sea dress ups for the kids to put on and have fun. Here are ideas on what to put in the box:

  • King Neptune's Crown
  • Mermaid Crowns
  • King Neptune's Trident
  • Mermaid tails (perhaps this can be as easy at simple green sequin skirts with elastic waists.)
  • Mermaid bikini tops
  • Shell Accessories (necklaces, hair clips, etc)
  • Fish Masks

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Robot Party: Game Ideas and Free Printable Scavenger Hunt

Free Printable Robot Scavenger Hunt Game by B.Nute productions
It's a known fact that robots love to play games! Below are a bunch of ideas perfect for keeping your robots moving and happy at your Robot Party.

Robot Scavenger Hunt Game
Print out these scavenger hunt cards and have kids hunting for robot parts! Hide a screw, a dial, a gear, an antenna, a spring, a nut around the party space. Make sure to have a computer somewhere that can be found as well as possibly as some appliance or items with a meter or gage. Once everything is hidden well, hand out these cards and let the kids hunt. Place them in teams if it's easier. For the first team to finish have a prize... Or just have a prize for all that finish!
Free Printable Robot Party Scavenger Hunt Game
Instructions for Making Robot Party Scavenger Hunt Game
1. Select each link above, and print out the page on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper (in landscape mode). I suggest a card stock to give the cards some weight.
2. Cut out scavenger hunt cards.
3. Hide items on card, and have kids hunt!

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

More Robot Party Game Ideas
Robot Dance Contest
Put on those electronic tunes and have the kids do their best robot dance moves! Give prizes for most creative, best move, most robot-like, etc. Here are some great robot-inspired tunes to play:

  • Mr. Roboto by Styx
  • Robot Parade by They Might Be Giants
  • Become a Robot by They Might Be Giants
  • Weird Science by Oingo Boingo
  • She Blinded Me with Science by Thomas Dolby
  • The Jetson's Theme Song
Robot Relays
Get 2 robot costumes out (i.e., decorated card board boxes, antenna, and pieces of heating duct -to be used as robot arms or legs). Split the party into teams. Each person needs to put on the costume (when it is his/her turn) and run or robot walk your relay course. After he/she is finished, he takes off the costume and passes it to his next team member to put on. First team to finish wins!

Pin the Part on the Robot
Cut out large rectangular shapes from construction paper. One for a body, 2 arms, 2 legs, a head, antenna, hands, feet, etc. You can be as creative as you'd like with your robot design with the construction paper. Place the body on the wall. Now blindfold each child and hand them one body part. Have them place it on the wall with a small piece of double stick tape on the back. Kids will love the look of the mixed up robot once complete!

Retro Robot Windup Race
Purchase several windup toy robots, draw a chalk "course" on your driveway, and have kids race the robots. Which robot is fastest? Which is slowest? Which walks in the most straight line? Have fun by giving the robots names and having them cheer on their favorite one!

Monday, December 13, 2010

A Victorian Christmas Party: Dickens' Inspired Old Fashioned Party Ideas, Decorations, Menu, Games and More...

Dickens' Old Fashioned Christmas Party Invitation by B.Nute productions on Etsy
Tis the season for merriment and mirth! Why not throw an old fashioned Christmas party this year filled with Dickens' inspired, Victorian charm. Below are ideas for your old fashioned gathering, sure to delight young and old.
A Victorian Christmas Inspiration Board


Decoration Ideas
Vintage Ornaments - A large bowl of vintage glass ornaments set on a table, vintage ornaments strung with ribbon from a window, or a tree filled with old tarnished ornaments.... any and all of these ideas are perfect for decorating your space.


Photo from Martha Stewart - Pin Up Holiday Wreath
Vintage Holiday Cards - Last year I spent hours in an antique store in Portland scouring through bins of vintage holiday cards... this year they are in prominent display! Whether you get your cards at an antique store, or at Dover Publishing, for their collection of Old Fashioned Christmas postcards, be sure to fill your space with these images for charm. Drape a ribbon garland over the mantle, and hang the cards from clothes pins across the garland, or set the cards on the mantle. Another alternative is to buy an inexpensive embroidery hoop. Then, simply pin the cards around the wreath.


12 Days of Christmas Party Crackers from Williams-Sonoma
Vintage Crackers - There's nothing more festive than a festive Christmas cracker set at each person's place at the Christmas table filled with little goodies! Many are available online, and/or if you're up for it, you can make your own!


Handknit Holiday Stockings by Sundance
Old Fashioned Stockings - Your fireplace won't be complete without some old fashioned hand knit stockings... long and lean with a stuffed animal or wood toy peaking out of the top!

Mistletoe
Find some mistletoe at your local florist and hang it in the front foyer for kisses all night long.


Bouche du Noel from Plaza Sweets
Yule Log, a Roasting Fire and a Buche du Noel
There is much history surrounding the Christmas Yule log, a tradition that started even before Christmas itself! Leave the hauling of a large log for another time, but make sure to have a roasting fire in the fire place throughout the party. If you'd like to add a little French flavor to your party, serve a Bouche de Noel for all to enjoy!


Father Christmas
Well before the legend of St. Nicholas hit the British Isles (St. Nicholas' legend came to Britain around 1066), the area was seeped with traditions of Father Christmas. The rituals of Father Christmas are many, but he became known as the bestower of blessings and bounty at winter time. It was thought if you showed him hospitality, the winter would be a little less harsh. By the time of the Vikings, the idea of secret visits from Father Christmas, leaving gifts, added to the mythology.

Father Christmas was banned when the Puritans came to power, and it wasn't until the Victorian era that Father Christmas made a comeback. He was prominently featured as the Ghost of Christmas Present in Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.

Carry on the tradition at your party, and share a little history of Father Christmas. Fill your space with images of him (the man dressed in the long cloak), and give the "Ho Ho Ho" of Santa a rest for the evening!

Vintage Toys
Vintage Victorian toys set out on the buffet or bar can add old fashioned charm to the party.

Menu and Drinks
Christmas Pudding from www.britianonview.com
There are many traditional Christmas meals served in England, but the most well known is Minced Pies (meat pies), Mulled Wine, and Christmas Plum Pudding. Enjoy these links to some old fashioned Christmas dinner traditions:
Christmas Cooking in the UK - Traditional British Christmas Foods
Christmas Mince Pie Recipe
Traditional English Recipes - Christmas Food




Parlour Games
Entertaining your guests at parties with games is not something new! Many books have been written, even from long ago, to suggest party games that will prevent "long awkward pauses" during your party. Below are just a few summarized games from a wealth of ideas from the book "How to Entertain Your Guests - A 1911 Collection of Indoor Games."

Noah's Ark - This game is more of a way to have guest mingle and find their "dinner partner" or whom they will be sitting next to at dinner. The game suggests putting a small picture of an animal on the invitation that you send (or writing the word is fine too). Then, at the party, the person needs to find their "partner" or matching animal. The pair would then head off to the table to sit next to each other. You could also hand out the animal names at the party, and have folks find their partner right before dinner.

Labyrinth of Presents - This one is a little more elaborate to set up, but could make your guests feel like kids again! Tie the end of a very long string to the top of your guests "goodie bag" or small gift. Then begin to wrap the string around the room in a maze-- around chair legs, a table, etc. At the end of the string, put a tag with the guest's name. Now proceed to do this with all your guests' gifts. In the end, this will be a tangled maze of fun! (This may be best to do in a room not used for the party.)

Shadow Game - In the book "How to Entertain Your Guests - A 1911 Collection of Indoor Games," there were many shadow games suggested. One such game is much like making finger shadows and guessing what animal it is (i.e., making a crocodile with your fingers, and casting the shadow on a wall). This game suggested taking ornaments, and casting the shadow on a wall, then guests need to guess what the ornament is (tin soldier, drum, angel, etc.). Obviously, make sure they can't see you with the ornament. You could be behind a hung white sheet, and cast the shadow on to the sheet with the guests on the other side.
Who? from Napastyle.com

Who?
Recently, Napastyle.com began to sell a whole host of nostalgic games from Britain. The game "Who?" looks like a perfect game for this party! Be sure to see their site for more!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Thanksgiving Games for the Whole Family from Preschoolers, Tweens and Teens, to Grandma!


Thanksgiving is all about family time. Given all the different generations of people, it may seem impossible to try to entertain or ensure that everyone has a good time. Well, it's time to dismiss these thoughts, and prepare for a great get together-- one that will be talked about year after year! Below are some game and activity ideas for all generations. These games may be such a hit, you may want to them to become a Thanksgiving tradition with your family!

Thanksgiving Charades
This timeless game is easy to add a Thanksgiving spin, and is fun for all ages! We even did it at our families Thanksgiving last year. Each person got to draw a slip of paper and act it out. For little ones, you can reserve a simpler list for them to act out! Here are a list of ideas for the slips of paper:
turkey
pilgrim
native american
the Mayflower
Plymouth rock
trading
corn
mashed potatoes
pumpkin

Put on a First Thanksgiving Play or Skit
This could be a serious play or a funny skit-- whatever suits your family spirit better! Depending on the kids and participants ages,you could preassign roles, and give a "script" or story... or you could have this be part of the fun for to come up with a skit to entertain everyone! If you make it humorous, perhaps those teens will want to participate! Here are some suggested titles or themes to a possible skit:

  • "What Happened the Day After the First Thanksgiving"
  • "Discovering Plymouth - Where on Earth Are We?"
  • "The First Thanksgiving - The Story of Who Ate Too Much"
  • "The First Thanksgiving- Who Actually Cooked the Whole Meal"

Trading Post - A Thanksgiving Gift Exchange
Before your gathering, tell everyone they need to pick out some type of gift to give someone at Thanksgiving. Preferably, this gift should be something either that they own, and are ready to part with, or is handmade. Make sure to limit the cost if it is store bought, so gifts stay in the same price range. Also, be sure to have everyone wrap the gift before they arrive. Have a little extra wrapping paper on hand in case someone forgets.

Now, once the family has gathered, conduct a good old fashioned White Elephant exchange, or in this case, call it a Pilgrim/Native American Trading Post. Start in a circle and have the first person (could be youngest or oldest or whomever you choose) to select someone's gift, and open it. Now continue with each person selecting someone's gift to open. Instead of selecting a new gift to open, someone can take a already opened gift from someone else, and they choose another gift. At the end, make sure to allow for trading as desired!

Make a Thanksgiving Playlist
A perfect activity for the tween and teen set. Kids (and adults) can work as a team or individually to come up with the perfect Thanksgiving playlist. For instance, the song lyrics may talk about being thankful (something from Kelly Clarkson's Thankful album perhaps), or being American (Lee Greenwood's "Proud to be an American", or perhaps Native American culture (Indigo Girls song "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee"). Winner of the best playlist can receive an iTunes gift card!

If I Was President - Thanksgiving Speech
How about charge the group with coming up with a speech... Pretend you are president for the day, and you need to address the nation with a Thanksgiving blessing. What would you say? What would be your message?

Family Trivia
Prior to Thanksgiving, have everyone send you one fact about themselves. For little ones, have the mom or dad send the fact. At Thanksgiving, hand out a slip of paper, and gather everyone together. Read each fact (in jumbled order) out loud, and have everyone write down who they think the fact belongs to. This is a great way to share some family stories and get to know one another better!

Pumpkin Hunt
Think of Easter time, and an Easter egg hunt... now just swap the eggs for mini-pumpkins and you have a great game for all ages (especially little ones.) This can be done indoors as well as outdoors depending on the weather. Mini-pumpkins can be found at most grocery stores as this time of year.

Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
A little more complicated than the pumpkin hunt above, so it is perfect for grade school kids and above... preschoolers, though, will love to follow along with the excitement and the older kids! Gather a bunch of Thanksgiving themed items-- for instance: acorn, Indian corn, gourd, pumpkin, feather (i.e., from a Native American headress), a small toy ship, a rock (i.e., Plymouth rock), etc. Create clues for each of these items and where they can be found around your house, yard, and/or neighborhood. Hide the items before the party.

Once the crowd has gathered, you can have everyone work in a team or separate into groups, and have them head off on their Thanksgiving hunt!

Who Am I? Guess the Famous Thanksgiving Person or Thanksgiving Item
A fun game for all ages-- write on a small piece of paper names of famous people surrounding the first Thanksgiving and/or the Thanksgiving holiday. Tape one name to each person's back. Now everyone needs to ask yes or no questions to find out who or what is taped to their back! Here's a list of possible people/or Thanksgiving related items: Squanto, Pocahontas, Pilgrim, Native American, Mayflower ship, turkey, corn, pumpkin, pumpkin pie, Pilgrim clergy man, Christopher Columbus, President of the United States, etc.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Hollywood Glamour Party: Art Activity and Game Ideas


Treat your guests like stars at your Glamourous Hollywood Party with these fancy, glittery and exciting art activities and game ideas!


Game Ideas

Red Carpet/Paparazzi Entrance
Although some stars are not too excited about the Paparazzi... for a new star, this attention can be very exciting! The best is to catch the guest star off guard. As they pull up to your house for the party, run out and star snapping pictures. Make sure to act very excited and say, "She's here... she's here... Look here, look here..." etc.! Once all the stars have arrived you can have another round of Paparazzi group shots. Having some type of red carpet, and/or roping off an area that the Paparazzi must stay behind will add to the effect.

After the party, be sure to download the pictures and send them to the star for their portfolio!


The Star Treatment: Pampering by the Hair, Makeup and Wardrobe Department
Hollywood stars like to be pampered, so give them the treatment they expect with a visit to the wardrobe/costume department, as well as the Makeup and Hair Department.

Wardrobe/Costume Department
Scour the house, the attic or garage and thrift stores for those perfect Hollywood costumes.. it's amazing what you can find. Now set all the items out in a room to be picked through and tried on. Perhaps a few full length mirrors will help the Stars see how they look. Also, be sure to label the room with a "WARDROBE DEPARTMENT" sign! Here's a list of ideas to look for:

  • sunglasses
  • purses
  • hats (with feathers and/or netting even better!)
  • anything that sparkles (gold lamée, sequins, beadwork, and more)
  • shalls or wraps
  • boas
  • high heel slip on shoes
  • slips (women's slips make elegant evening wear!)
  • bow ties, and fancy ties (for the actors)
Hair and Makeup Department
Set up another room or space as the Hair and Makeup Department. (Again, a sign is perfect for denoting the space.) If you have a director style chair the star can sit in, great! Set up next to a table with a mirror on it. Now, get out all your eyeshadow, and makeup, hair spray and hair accessories and have fun making your star guests shine!

Worried there's too many guests, and not enough makeup artists and hair stylists? This is a perfect thing to hire a babysitter or preteen to help out with! They'll love giving kids makeovers!


Who Am I: Guess the Movie Star Game
This is a great game to star the party out! Before the party, write down a bunch of actor and actresses names on a piece of paper. Cut each out. Once all the guests are settled, tape a name to each persons back. The guests need to ask only yes/no questions to try to find out who is taped to their back. For a younger group of guests, pick out names of characters from children's movies that they would most likely know. For instance, Woody or Buzz from Toy Story, Flick from Bugs Life, Beethoven (the dog), etc.


Movie Trivia
There are plenty of Movie Trivia games on the market that you can buy and use the questions to host a game show for your stars! Break your party into teams, and ask a trivia question to the team. Each team that gets the question correct, gets a point. The first team to get 10 points, say, wins. Here are some helpful links:
Movie Trivia Questions for Kids
Movie Trivia Questions for Adults
Movie Trivia Games


Make a Movie
With a little prep work, this could be a lot of fun for all your star guests! Depending on the age and size of the crowd, it may be best to pick out a script for a skit before the party, print it out, and pick which guest will be which character.

For instance, here's an online script to Toy Story. Pick a specific scene that guests may already know, and have them act it out!

Provide costumes or accessories if possible to have the stars, "get into the role". Help them practice as well. Be sure to have your megaphone, and directors chair to make it official!

When it's show time, get out the video camera, your clapboard, and -- "Ready, Set, Action!"

After the skit is through, show the kids the performance so they can all get a laugh!

Art Activity Ideas
A Glamorous Glitter Frame Perfect for you Paparazzi Shot
What star wouldn't like a glittery frame to show off his or her paparazzi shot! Head to the local craft store, and pick up some inexpensive frames. Buy lots of gems, glitter glue, metallic pens, paint and more.

Set up a table at the party with the supplies lined up and frame and have the stars decorate them! After the party, be sure to send them a picture so they can put it in their frame!


Decorate or Create an Autograph Book
Although most stars are GIVING autographs to people, they may also like to get autographs too! A great art project is to have the stars create their own autograph books, then have all the other stars sign them!

This project can be either simple or more complex depending on the guests' age and time allowed for the activity. A simple version is to buy some plain notebooks at the local craft store or drugstore, and have the guests decorate the cover.

A more complex version would be to have kids make the book by hand. Cut sheets of plain white paper in half to be sized 8.5"x5.5". Fold the paper in 1/2 to become a booklet where the new size is 4.25" x 5.5".  Now, with a piece of white cardstock, do the same. This will be the cover of the book.

After the pages and the cover are cut, have kids staple the "spine" or the book together in the center fold. Now they can decorate as they see fit!


Make Some Glittery Jewelry (a.k.a. Bling!)
All stars want to have some bling! Either purchase some Jewelry Kits, or buy jewelry making supplies at your craft store and set up a table for the guests to make one-of-a-kind items... perfect for the red carpet!