Sweet 16 Slumber Party Ideas

A Sweet 16 Party is more than just cake and ice cream

Sweet 16 parties are popular. You'll often hear of huge blowouts thrown for celebrity children that cost more than some people pay for their first house. However, sweet 16 parties can still be thrown on a budget and be fabulous without the high costs. Does this Spark an idea?

Theme

Deciding on a theme is probably the hardest part of throwing a sweet 16 slumber party. After you have chosen an overall theme, the rest of the party will fall into place. Before deciding on a theme, you must decide whether this party will be coed in the earlier part of the night. If members of the opposite sex are invited, that may affect your theme slightly.

After you decide on your guest list, you are ready to choose the theme. Start out by thinking about your daughter. What are her hobbies or passions? What are her favorite movies or bands? What is her favorite color? All of these elements can play an important role in finding the theme for the event. Some popular themes are a luau theme, a Mardi Gras theme, a candy theme or even a Hollywood theme.

If you are having trouble finding a theme, visit your local party store for ideas. It will have an entire section dedicated to sweet 16 birthday parties, and it will have a variety of themes to choose from.

Invitations and Decor

After you have chosen your theme, you must find invitations and decorations to match. Most party stores will be able to accommodate a popular theme, such as a luau. If your theme is more original, you may have to do a little more creative searching. Websites such as PaperStyle.com and AnnouncingIt.com allow you to order customized invitations and decorations, and they often have something to match almost any theme. One idea is to create custom Driver's License invitations with a picture of your daughter.

You can also use websites such as Flickr or Shutterfly to create personalized invitations that include a photo of your daughter, and you can add your own text with details about the party. Be sure to clarify that this is a sweet 16 slumber party, and outline what guests need to bring, such as pillows, blankets and towels.

If you are doing a luau, you can buy palm tree decorations, play island music and buy cups shaped like coconuts with little umbrellas to stick in your drinks. For a candy themed party, you can set up a table with several bowls of different types of candy, pass out candy necklaces and give each girl a Ring Pop to wear. For a Hollywood theme, you can spread out a "red carpet," post pictures of famous Hollywood couples on the walls and even buy a large "Hollywood" sign to hang on the wall. Give each girl a pair of sunglasses and take pictures of them, like the "paparazzi" all night.

Games and Activities

Because this is an all-night event, the sweet 16 slumber party will have to have several different phases of activities. In the early part of the evening, you will want to have a playlist ready with upbeat music and a speaker system so invitees can dance. You can even rent a karaoke machine so the brave guests can sing karaoke.

You can also buy low-cost drug store make-up and let the girls give each other makeovers. You can set up stations for hair, nails and make-up and let the girls rotate every 10 to 15 minutes. For boys, you can setup a video game or video game stations if you have more than one television or game system available. Games that involve multiple players are best so everyone can be involved. Another idea is to ask guests to bring their laptops and network them together or play multiplayer games online.

Later in the evening, make sure you have plenty of movies for when it's time for the lights to go off. Also, you can suggest games of truth or dare or a sports trivia game for boys. Most likely, by the end of the evening, the partygoers will think of games to play themselves, but it always helps to have a backup plan in case things get quiet.

Tags: more than, party will, slumber party, sweet slumber, will have, your daughter, your theme

Spongebob Pool Party Ideas

Spongebob Pool Party Ideas

SpongeBob Squarepants has become a cartoon favorite for young kids across the globe. Who could resist the big yellow sponge that likes to blow bubbles? Impress your kids by planning a SpongeBob pool party for them this summer. They'll be sure to have a ball and remember the party for years to come. Does this Spark an idea?

Bubble-Themed Ideas

Everyone that knows SpongeBob knows that he loves to blow bubbles. Get your kids to join in the fun by providing lots of bubble-related toys at the pool. Give bubble-themed gift bags with bottles of bubbles and creative bubble wands. Be sure to have several bubble machines running around the pool to set the mood. Ask the children to have a bubble-blowing contest to see who can blow the biggest bubble. They might also see who can pop the most bubbles. Give SpongeBob pool cups as prizes to the winners.

Ideas for Using Sponges

Give each child a sponge decorated with facial features resembling SpongeBob. Have each child write his name on his sponge so it doesn't get lost. Use the sponges for a variety of party games. Throw them in the pool and see who can swim and collect them the fastest. Find out who can throw her sponge the farthest, who can stack the highest sponge tower and who can jump over the most sponges. Be sure to have SpongeBob party favors on hand for the winners of all of the games.

Come in Costume

Ask each child to come dressed as SpongeBob and to do her SpongeBob impersonation in order to be "admitted" to the pool party. An adult can videotape the children and create a video montage set to music to give to all of the party attendees at a later date. Order a SpongeBob cake, play a game of Pin the Nose on SpongeBob and then ask the kids to sing the SpongeBob theme song while playing in the pool.

All-Yellow Decor

Send out SpongeBob party invitations and clearly outline in the invitations that everything worn or brought to the party must be yellow. Make all your decorations yellow also. Serve only yellow food (yellow cake, pineapple, bananas and other yellow foods) and use a yellow cloth on your table. Play SpongeBob music in the background as the kids are playing in the pool.

Tags: each child, sure have, blow bubbles, Party Ideas, playing pool, Pool Party Ideas, SpongeBob party

Tropical Flowers Made With Fondant

Fondant flowers look wonderful on tropical-themed cakes.

Celebrate your birthday, anniversary or other special occasion with a tropical theme and have a cake that features the colorful flowers associated with the tropics. A number of flowers will look great when created with fondant that makes your celebratory dessert stand out. Does this Spark an idea?

Hibiscus

The hibiscus flower has wide, round leaves, which makes for a great fondant flower since the fondant will display lots of color that will complement a single or multi-level cake well. Roll the fondant out flat and use a hibiscus-shaped cookie cutter so flowers will be the perfect shape and size--cookie cutters also work well because the hibiscus flower has a flat appearance.

Create fondant hibiscus flowers in pink, yellow, purple and white. Place small fondant pieces in yellow and white in the center of the flower and small edible pearls in the center of the fondant flower for added texture that makes the hibiscus look realistic.

Orchids

Fondant orchids are popular for birthday and wedding cakes. Because the actual flower blooms in so many colors, you're bound to find one that suits your tastes and personality. Hand-crafting the orchid petals is best because there are a number of petal shapes to choose from. Yellow and white fondant, along with splashes of deep pink are necessary for the orchid's center.

Create a fondant orchid in the correct color by dropping a few drops of food coloring on a slab of fondant and mix the color in -- add more food coloring for a darker flower, since orchids are available in deep purple and burgundy. Creating orchid petals from white fondant and using edible paint to create dots on the flowers will add a dramatic touch to the cake.

Lilies

Lilies have long leaves and will definitely stand out when you make them accents for a fondant cake. Calla lilies are a favorite for weddings. Roll the fondant very thin and mold it into something of a cone shape to resemble the flower. White, yellow, and purple are ideal colors for fondant lilies and you should include small pieces of yellow and green fondant in the center of the lily to make it appear more life-like.

Tiger lilies can make your cake look especially tropical. Use orange and yellow fondant (sometimes mixed with marzipan) for the petals and paint brown dots near the center of the flower for the 'tiger' look. Arrange brown fondant pieces in the center of the 'bloom' to represent the flower seeds.

Tags: flowers will, center flower, Create fondant, flower since, fondant flower, fondant pieces, food coloring

Scrapbooking Ideas For Home Decor

Paper crafters and scrapbookers often amass a large quantity of supplies and wonder at other ways to put them to use. Some crafters create practical home decor that matches their color schemes and the feel of their home with a variety of scrapbook papers and products. All types of ideas can spruce up your home to make it warm and inviting.

Die Cut Framed Project

Frame updated die cuts in a variety of colors for a fresh home decor idea. Add several different die cut images to the mix to add interest to the project. You can die cut your own images or borrow the die cut machine at your local scrapbook store. This framed project can bring a country or Christmas theme to life if you use primitive stars and a heart or Christmas trees and an angel.

Decorative Clocks

Purchase a clock kit from a craft store. Cover the kit with scrapbook papers, embellishments and numbers to match your home decor as desired. Use vintage or travel papers for a French country or Parisian look. Use baby-related papers or nursery rhyme embellishments for a special nursery clock.

Canvas

For a very simple, yet striking project, buy several blank canvases in the same size and plan an arrangement on your wall space. Use coordinating patterned papers to cover the canvas. Adhere the papers using a decoupage medium. Paint the edges of the canvas, if desired. This project works well in an open area in a living room or family room, or over the bed in the master bedroom.

Door Hangers

Buy a door hanger and cover it with scrapbook supplies. Use a decoupage medium to adhere scrapbook papers. Add ribbon, sparkly gems and a photo for a girl's room door hanger. Use fiber or twine, buttons and a photo for a boy's room. This project also works well for the bathroom door or a baby's room.

Home Decor Accents

Buy inexpensive foam balls from a craft store and a bowl to place them in for the coffee table. Cover the balls with scrapbook paper, ribbon, buttons and flowers. Adhere the supplies with adhesive dots, decorative straight pins or decoupage medium for a project that will coordinate with any color scheme and decor.

Tags: decoupage medium, home decor, scrapbook papers, with scrapbook, craft store, door hanger

Monkey Birthday Crafts

Kids love monkeys, from stories about Curious George to real live monkeys at the zoo. A monkey-themed birthday party can feature jungle decorations, a monkey cake and one or more monkey crafts. Craft ideas range from monkey pinatas and party favors to monkey binoculars. Does this Spark an idea?

Simple Monkey Faces

Give each child a pair of scissors, a glue stick and brown, tan and black construction paper. Trace a large circle on to the brown paper using a cereal bowl. On the same sheet of paper, trace two small circles using a drinking glass. Trace a medium-sized circle on the tan paper using a mug, and trace two tiny circles on the black paper using coins. Cut out all of the circles. Cut the tan circle in half. Glue the two pieces of the tan circle -- slightly separated -- to the middle of the large brown circle to make the monkey's mouth and nose. Add the eyes and ears.

Monkey Head Pinatas

Give each child a balloon, and help him cover it in papier-mâch . Play a few games while the balloons dry. Once dry, help the children paint the balloons brown. As the paint dries, have each child cut the following circles out of construction paper: one large tan, two smaller brown and two very small black. Cut the large tan circle in half, and paste the two pieces, with a slight gap between them, on to the pinata to form the monkey's mouth and nose. Add eyes and ears. Make a small hole in the bottom to add candy.

Monkey Party Favors

Give each child a brown paper cup, a black pipe cleaner, a glue stick and tan and black construction paper. On the tan paper, trace a small circle using a drinking glass and two smaller circles using a quarter. Trace two small circles on the black paper using dimes. Cut out all the circles. Cut the large tan circle in half, and paste the two pieces to the front of the cup, leaving a small gap. Paste on eyes and ears. Attach the pipe cleaner, and fill with candy.

Monkey Binoculars

Before the party begins, hide several pictures of monkeys around your home or yard. Give each child two empty toilet paper rolls, a glue stick and a piece of yarn. Glue toilet paper rolls together side by side to form binoculars. Punch a hole at the end of each tube, and connect the yarn. Have each child put her binoculars in preparation for a "safari." Take children around the house or yard, and have them look for the monkey pictures.

Tags: each child, Give each, Give each child, paper using, circle half, construction paper, eyes ears

Restaurants Near The Taj Pierre Hotel In New York New York

The Taj Pierre Hotel is located in Midtown Manhattan, across from Central Park.

The Taj Pierre Hotel is located on New York City's Fifth Avenue, directly across from Central Park in Midtown Manhattan. The 140-room, 49-suite luxury hotel has restaurants on site, such as Le Caprice and the Two E Bar/Lounge. Guests are also within walking distance to several fine restaurants.

Le Caprice

London-inspired Le Caprice is part of the Taj Pierre Hotel complex. The main dining room stretches across 61st Street, overlooking Central Park. The dining room is decorated with London photographs and art, dating to the 1960s. The restaurant serves dishes with a British flair, from roast chicken to fish and chips. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. This includes a Sunday brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Rouge Tomate

The Rouge Tomate is a restaurant that offers modern American cuisine. Located on 60th Street, a few blocks away from the Pierre, it offers seasonal dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients. All dishes are prepared in consultation with a Rouge Tomate nutritionist to ensure they are healthy. The bar offers guests more than 200 international and domestic wines. The restaurant's atmosphere is soothing, decorated with natural elements such as water, trees and sunlight.

Harry Cipriani Restaurant

The Harry Cipriani Restaurant is located on Fifth Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets. It's open from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. seven days a week and features Italian dishes. Entrees include risotto alla primavera pasta and beef carpaccio. This New York location is a duplicate of the original Harry's restaurant which opened in Venice in 1931. The restaurant seats about 130 guests in a lemon-colored dining room with wood-panelled walls.

Amaranth Restaurant

Amaranth Restaurant is located steps away from Central Park on Madison Avenue and 62nd Street. It features Mediterranean cuisine, from seafood to pasta. Many of its spices and ingredients are imported from Italy and France. It offers a seasonal terrace for outdoor dining and rooms that can accommodate larger groups. Main course dishes are priced as low as $15. The restaurant features a wine and cocktail list. One drink specialty is the frozen cosmopolitan.

Tags: Central Park, Pierre Hotel, dining room, from Central, from Central Park, Rouge Tomate

Luau Scavenger Hunt Ideas

A lei is an item found at luaus that would fit on a scavenger hunt list

A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast including food and entertainment. While dinner and a show are common luau components, a scavenger hunt is an addition that will entice children of all ages to have even more fun. Whether held in Hawaii or anywhere, the unique aspects of a luau make for a challenging scavenger hunt.

Leis

At most luaus or luau-themed parties, leis will be present and could be one item on a list for a scavenger hunt. However, finding three different colored leis might be a bit more challenging. Extra points could be given to real flower leis (versus plastic leis) or shell leis. Take a photo wearing the leis or bring the leis back with you.

Grass Skirt

Grass skirts worn by tourists or professional dancers at a luau are a-plenty. While you may not be able to snag one to take back at the end of the hunt, an item on the list may be "a photo of you wearing a grass skirt."

Drink Umbrella

Different tropical drinks may come inside a coconut or pineapple at a luau, but whatever the drinks come in, they’ll likely come with a small drink umbrella. One may be too easy to find, but finding three different colors or styles will be a bigger challenge for a hunt.

Fire-Eater/Breather/Thrower

A fire-eater, fire breather or fire-tosser may be present as entertainment at a luau. Taking a photo with one could be on the list, as it may be difficult to find one at a large event. If you see one and he’s performing, get creative by simply standing hear him and having a friend snap a shot of both of you.

Shells

Whether a tiny shell from the sand or a large conch shell, shells are abundant at most luao locations. An item on a scavenger hunt list could pertain to a specific shell, such as a conch shell, or could just be "find the biggest shell" and whoever has the biggest at the end gets the points.

Tags: scavenger hunt, conch shell, drinks come, finding three, finding three different

New Orleans Free Walking Tours

The New Orleans Cemetery is one popular location for city walking tours.

A New Orleans city resident, Democratic political analyst James Carville once said, "You don't need a guidebook to see New Orleans--just a good pair of shoes." New Orleans is friendly to travelers. Its attractions like St. Louis Cathedral are easy to locate, and neighborhoods like the French Quarter are segmented into just the right size for travel by foot. Free walking tours are an economical and healthy way to get to know "The Big Easy."

Jazz Walk of Fame

The New Orleans Jazz Historical Park and the National Park Service system recommend a walking tour down the Jazz Walk of Fame. This famous walkway is decorated with lampposts dedicated to famous jazz musicians. The walking tour begins at the post of Louis Armstrong and continues to honor musical greats like Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Prima. The full-color pamphlet for the one-hour tour can be downloaded at the NPS's website. Walkers can access a free voice narration for the tour by calling 504-613-4062 or downloading a file from the National Park Service's website.

New Orleans Jazz

Also provided by the NPS, this 11-stop walking tour offers travellers a glimpse into the rich history of jazz in the Big Easy. The tour begins at the statue of Louis Armstrong at Armstrong Park and ends at the Algiers Ferry Landing. Walkers are led through the French Quarter to see stops such as Congo Square, J&M Recording Studio and Preservation Hall. A color map is available for download from the NPS's website and voice narration is available by calling 504-613-4062.

French Quarter

The New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau offers its own free walking tour through the French Quarter. While this tour covers much of the same ground as the Jazz tour, its focus is on more general places of interest. The tour begins at the First Ursuline Convent and Charity Hospital and ends at the The house of Jean Pascal. During the tour, walkers explore Pirate's Alley, visit the oldest cathedral in the United States and take a walk on the Moon Walk. This is a long tour and travellers should set aside a minimum of two to three hours for its completion. The tour brochure is available for download through the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau's website.

Garden District

New Orleans Garden District is home to expansive Southern mansions and historic cottages. Visitors interested in the city's unique architecture will enjoy Frommer's free walking tour, which includes stops at the unique Greek Revival and Queen Anne hybrid Women's Opera Guild House and the Gothic Revival-styled Briggs-Staub House. This tour will also delight Anne Rice fans, as it includes her favorite bookstore, the Garden District Book Shop; the Lafayette Cemetery, which houses the Mayfair witches' family tomb; and the Brevard-Mahat-Rice House, her former home.

Tags: walking tour, French Quarter, Garden District, tour begins, available download

Party Goody Bag Ideas

Tie a goody bag with a balloon.

Hand out party goody bags at your child's birthday party, a baby shower, wedding shower or bachelorette party. Choose a goody bag that compliments the theme of your party and fill it with snacks, favors or small toys, depending on the type of party. Party guests will love the extra fun these bags add, as well as the goodies inside. Does this Spark an idea?

Cosmetic Bags

Cosmetic bags work as a great goody bag for any female-exclusive party, whether it's a girl's sleepover birthday party or baby shower. Fill the bag with makeup samples such as eye shadow, lipstick or perfumes. You can also put lotion or wrinkle cream samples into the bag if your guest are older. For younger girls, fill the bag with candy, plastic jewelry, lip gloss and glitter. If you're throwing a bachelorette party, put flavored oils and lotions into each bag along with erotic candy.

Bandannas

If you're throwing a more laid back party such as a Fourth of July party or a backyard birthday party, use bandannas as your goody bag. Simply place all the goodies in the center of the bandanna, then tie the corners together. For kids these goody bags could contain stickers, crayons, a jump rope and a package of fruit snacks or a lollipop. If you're entertaining adults, tie up individually wrapped chocolates, a mini alcohol bottle, Mardi Gras beads and scented candles or soaps.

Flower Pots

Use a flower pot as a goody bag for any garden or outdoor party. Purchase a terracotta pot for each guest, then fill it with Hawaiian leis, silk flowers, samples of flower-scented perfumes, organic snacks and packs of seeds for different types of flowers or vegetables. Add flower stickers or rubber stamps for a kid's goody bag. To make the flower pots look more regal, wrap them in colored cellophane or sheer fabric and tie at the top with ribbon. Both adults and kids will love these flower pot goody bags.

Oversized Coffee Cups

Pick up a bunch of oversized coffee cups at a dollar store to use as goody bags for any party that takes place during the autumn or winter. For adults, fill with small packages of different flavored coffees, teas and hot chocolate to keep them warm during the cold months. Add packets of sugar or creamer, a fun plastic stirrer, chocolates, potpourri and some small favor that goes with the theme of your celebration such as a noisemaker for a New Year's Eve party or a small ornament for Christmas. You can also use these for children's parties; just replace the coffee with a small toy.

Tags: goody bags, birthday party, fill with, baby shower, bachelorette party, birthday party baby

Waikiki Hawaii Discount Tours & Adventures

Waikiki is a major tourist magnet for visitors to Oahu.

The most visited of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu is home to Honolulu's Waikiki, a bustling tourist mecca for visitors from around the globe. Waikiki is filled with tourist hotels, bars, shopping areas and, on every corner, either storefronts or "tiki" booths with tour companies offering discounts on everything from luaus and hula dancing to airborne adventures. Most hotels can offer tour company referrals through the concierge or information desk and there are a few, long-time and legitimate companies who do nothing but arrange discounted trips and outings.

Tours 4 Less Discount Tours

With offices on the main drag in Waikiki and in business for more than twenty-five years, Tours 4 Less Discount Tours has discounts on guided and self-guided events, on water activities, bus tours, land activities and more than a dozen luaus held throughout the island of Oahu. Recent discounted activities ranged from dining cruises and submarine dives to factory tours and snorkeling trips.

Tours 4 Less Discount Tours

159 Kaiulani Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96815

808-923-2211‎

Tours4lesshawaii.com

Sav-On Tours

Offering discounts on everything from Pearl Harbor tours to tickets to the Polynesian Cultural Center, Sav-on Tours has been in business on Oahu for more than twenty years and claims to have discounts of up to fifty percent off of the most popular tourist events and venues. Single day excursions of whale and dolphin watching, shark cage dives and deep sea fishing are just some of the water charter events that Sav-on offers discounts on with some same-day discounts greater than fifty percent.

Sav-on Tours

2255 Kuhio Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96830

808-924-6639

Savontourshawaii.com

All Hawaii Tours

Although their customer service department is located in Nevada, All Hawaii Tours offers discounts on more than one hundred and eighty tours and venues on the island of Oahu, including both land-based and water activities. In addition to helicopter tours over Waikiki and the island, All Hawaii Tours also offers discounts on inter-island flights and adventures on Maui, Hawaii and Kauai.

All Hawaii Tours

8525 Edna Avenue

Las Vegas, NV 89117

702-233-1627

allhawaiitours.com

Tags: Discount Tours, Hawaii Tours, more than, Less Discount, Less Discount Tours, offers discounts, Tours Less

The Best Luau On Oahu

With local reviewers on Yelp.com giving Paradise Cove Luau at the gorgeous beachside Ko'Olina Resort an average of four stars, this luau is the highest-rated on Oahu. The Paradise Cove Luau's several components ensure a full evening of entertainment.

Greeting, Crafts, and Games

All of the luau packages include bus transportation from Waikiki, if needed. Once guests arrive, the first part of the luau offers casual interaction. During the mai tai greeting, guests sip complimentary drinks. At this time, the Hawaiian village offers arts and crafts demonstrations, with free temporary tattoos and lei making sessions.

Those feeling more active can take part in native Hawaiian games. Under the supervision of instructors, guests try out dart sliding, spear throwing and stone disk rolling.

Beach Entertainment

Next, guests proceed to the beach, where Hawaiians perched in trees throw blossoms down on top of them. Then there is a net fishing demonstration, the Hukilau Ceremony, in which guests help pull in fishing nets from the sea.

Then, guests watch a Hawaiian underground oven cooking demonstration at the Imu Ampitheatre. The Imu oven has not changed since ancient times, is an important part of Hawaiian culture and is used to prepare luau food.

Luau Feast

At the luau feast buffet, guests can sample traditional dishes like poi (mashed taro root, sweetened) and pulled pork. Paradise Cove also includes local dishes that vary.

Table service is available with some luau packages.

Evening Entertainment

After dinner, the Paradise Cove Extravaganza begins. This is a blend of hula and fire dancers, music and more, all in traditional and contemporary styles from Hawaii and Polynesia.

Different Packages

The luau sells three packages, varying in price. All include everything listed above. What varies are the entertainment seating, drink tickets, photo opportunities, souvenirs and table service.

Children cost less. Children ages 3 and under are free, provided that they are lap sitters and share a plate with a paying adult.

Tags: Paradise Cove, Cove Luau, luau packages, Paradise Cove Luau

Luau Party Planning

Hula dancers at a Hawaiian luau.

Throwing a Hawaiian luau party can be a fun way to host a get-together among friends. Luau parties are most fun when held on a summer night--preferably poolside. To make your luau a success, the key is to transform your gathering area into a tropical paradise with fun decorations, Hawaiian music and a menu of traditional Polynesian food and beverages. Does this Spark an idea?

A Festive Menu

You don't have to roast a pig in your backyard to host an authentic luau, but your menu should have a tropical theme. Start the evening with a Polynesian pupu platter with hors d'oeuvres selections such as Hawaiian spare ribs, beef teriyaki, spring rolls and crab rangoon. Offer fruit-garnished cocktails such as mai tais or blue Hawaiians.

For the main course, use an outdoor grill to create kabobs of meat, pineapple, mango and bell pepper. Coconut shrimp and grilled pork are appropriate entree ideas. Don't forget a platter of sliced pineapple--a staple for any traditional luau party.

Luau Music

Two options for music for your luau are traditional Hawaiian music or fun beach-party favorites such as music by The Beach Boys and Jimmy Buffett or the soundtrack to "Blue Hawaii." The music you choose should complement the activities you're planning for your guests. Traditional Hawaiian music is perfect for hula dancing, while upbeat beach-party songs will encourage an energetic limbo game.

Tropical Decor

The decorations you choose will set the mood for your luau. Transport your party guests to the Hawaiian islands with decorative palm trees, tiki torches, raffia table skirts and pink plastic flamingos. On the tables, place pineapple greens, coconuts and tropical flowers. Coconut shells are a decorative alternative to cocktail glasses.

Party Attire

Encourage guests to wear festive clothing to the luau. Suggest floral shirts for men and colorful flowing skirts for women. If the party will be poolside, let guests know to bring their bathing suits. As the host, greet each guest with a floral lei made of real or silk flowers upon arrival. Handing out grass skirts is optional, but they can be a fun addition for partygoers (particularly if they'll be hula dancing).

Tags: Hawaiian music, your luau, Hawaiian luau, hula dancing, luau party

What To Say On A Graduation Party Invitation

Hosting a graduation party for a recent graduate allows friends and family who could not attend the ceremony to celebrate his achievements. Invitations for a graduation party must include a few types of information. Does this Spark an idea?

Occasion

Indicate clearly on the invitation that the party is to celebrate your student's graduation. If the student has plans for his next step, whether school or a job, include this. For example, write "Join us as we celebrate [Name]'s graduation from [high school] and welcome the newest member of [college], class of [anticipated year of college graduation]!"

Time Frame

The graduation party invitation should include the time the party begins. If the party is an open house, invite guests to drop in between specific times. For a more formal party with a dinner, invite guests for "hors d'oeuvres at [start time] and seating at [dinner time]."

Other Details

Include other details on the invitation, such as the location of the graduation party and the date including the day of the week. If you would like guests to let you know whether they will be attending, include your name, phone number and an RSVP date at the bottom of the invitation.

Tags: graduation party, invite guests

Removing Labels From Bottles

Wine enthusiasts collect labels from their bottles to show what they have guzzled and how companies have changed their designs over the years. Bottles can be used as decorations around the home or reused for a multitude of craft projects. Some bottles look attractive with their original labels and some do not. Whatever the need or want may be, removing a label from a bottle is not terribly difficult to do. Does this Spark an idea?

Water

If you are not worried about retaining the label for a personal collection, the most common way to remove a label is with water. Use boiling water to remove all the adhesive with the label. This will help to avoid the need to scrape the bottle afterward. Soak the bottle in the boiling water for a few minutes, and gently try peeling the label away. The bottle will get extremely hot, so take care when handling it straight from the water.

Heat

Another way to remove the label from a bottle without destroying it is to use heat. Hold the bottle with a gloved hand, and use a blow dryer to heat the bottle. This helps break down the adhesive holding the label in place. If this is too difficult, put your bottle in the oven on low heat, and let it sit for a few minutes, making sure the label does not burn. Take the label off with a gloved hand, using a razor blade to gently peel off the label.

Wine Label Remover

If a label is a collectible, or if you are a collector of product designs, use what is called a wine label remover to take the label off the bottle. A wine label remover is a thin sheet of plastic which has one side covered in adhesive. Apply the adhesive to the label on the bottle, and peel back carefully. With this method there is no need to soak the bottle in water beforehand; the wine label remover has chemicals in the adhesive which help break down the glue underneath the label.

Tags: label remover, wine label, wine label remover, boiling water, break down, from bottle

What Are The 8 Main Islands Of Hawaii

Hawaii state is a collection of islands

Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage that remains largely intact to this day. The eight islands of Hawaii are home to sandy beaches, massive waves, national parks and the only royal residence on United States soil.

Hawaii Or The Big Island

The biggest island of Hawaii has more land than all the other islands combined and is the most easterly in the chain. It boasts both black sandy beaches and snow-topped mountains, and is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Maui

Maui is the second largest island to the west of Hawaii's Big Island. Along with visiting the world-class golf courses, tourists also flock to Maui for humpback whale watching.

Oahu

Oahu is the third biggest, most populated island and home to the state capitol. Tourists can swim at Waikiki beach or surf off the North Shore.

Kauai

The fourth largest island, Kauai is also the farthest north and is known for its canyons and hiking trails. Some parts of this forested island can only be accessed by sea or air.

Molokai and Lanai

Molokai and Lanai sit northwest of Maui. Molokai's population is still half native Hawaiian and Lanai is small enough not to warrant traffic lights.

Kahoolawe and Niihau

The littlest of the eight islands, Kahoolawe and Niihau have no tourist infrastructure. Kahoolawe is nestled west of Maui and Niihau is west of Kauai.

Tags: eight islands, Hawaii Island, islands Hawaii, Kahoolawe Niihau, largest island

Preschool Activities Ideas & Games For A Mulitcultural Theme

The preschool child is curious about the differences observed among people.

The diversity of cultures, skin colors, religions and languages in classrooms confirms an observation the preschool child made before he entered your classroom: the child sees differences among people. The preschool environment provides a teaching opportunity to enhance understanding about these differences and build an appreciation for diversity and multicultural traditions.

Travel Agency Learning Center

Designate a learning center in your classroom as a travel agency. The children can explore colorful posters, travel brochures and samples of currency from a new country each week. Provide a recording of several words spoken in the country's language. Permit the children to purchase tickets that enable them to "travel" to the country during story time. Share a book about the country during story time and talk about favorite activities enjoyed by the children who live there.

Native American Activities

Introduce a native American tradition during circle time that reminds eager preschoolers to listen while others are talking. The child who holds either a "talking stick" or a "talking stone" speaks while others listen. Wrap strips of colorful fabric or ribbon around a wooden dowel and secure with a glue gun or embellish a rock with paint or glitter glue. For another activity, use brown crumpled paper bags and paint them to demonstrate how native Americans used buffalo hides to tell stories with pictures. Discuss that herds of buffalo also provided food, clothing and materials to construct homes. Encourage children to paint pictures on the paper bags to create an original story. Permit the children to share their stories with the class during story time.

Luau Activity

Share a story about Hawaii and talk about the Hawaiian culture. Send notes home to parents requesting that the children bring fruit such as bananas, pineapples, papaya, mangoes or coconuts for a class luau. Serve ham and cheese finger sandwiches and frozen lemonade with the fruit. Provide grass skirts, leis and Hawaiian music.

Birthdays Around The World

Preschoolers love birthday parties. Talk about the multicultural traditions associated with children's birthday celebrations. Explore the different customs specific to a new country each week. Teach the children to say, "Happy Birthday" in the country's native language. Incorporate a traditional birthday food and activity from the selected county during snack time. Ask the children to talk about how the country's birthday celebration differs from their own birthday traditions.

Tags: during story, during story time, story time, about country, among people

Ways Of Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communications are as important as verbal ones.

Those with laryngitis quickly discover ways to communicate without relying on the usual verbal skills. They develop nonverbal ways of communicating until they heal enough to speak once again. Others who have never had the ability to verbalize, or lost it through illness or accident, also develop ways of communicating without words. Nonverbal communication accentuates verbal skills.

Facial Expressions

Facial expression can be as important as speech when communicating. Even when you can speak, your facial expression gives depth to your words. Maybe you are too far away for a greeting, but a smile conveys approachability. A smile also conveys happiness or delight in meeting another person. A frown makes you more unapproachable. A frown conveys unhappiness, concentration or frustration. When used against another person, it means you are unhappy in some way with the other person or with something they said or did. Facial expressions convey human emotions like joy, anger and love.

Eyes

Eyes also reveal emotion, from narrowed eyes that speak anger to the wide eyes of wonder and awe. If your gaze travels up and down, or anywhere but toward the other person, you convey boredom, disinterest or the implication that you're lying. Looking directly at the other person transmits a sense of integrity and interest.

Body Language

Body language is equally important in conveying a non-verbal message. A shrug of the shoulders may be seen as dismissive of an idea or a person. Slumping shoulders conveys defeat or discouragement. Tight, tense shoulders may reveal anger. Most people pick up on these signs without knowing that the body language of the person speaking sends a louder message than the words spoken.

The way you hold yourself and walk also conveys a loud non-verbal message. When you remain stiff or lean back or away from those with whom you seek to communicate, you transmit an attitude of fear and/or unapproachability. Leaning forward and smiling conveys that you are interested and approachable.

Hand Gestures

How someone shakes hands conveys a nonverbal message about that person and their response to you. Barely touching someone's hand may indicate a certain hesitation or revulsion to the person or a person's imperfections. Hand gestures help those with whom you communicate to comprehend spoken communication. If you never use your hands to assist in communicating, you may be conveying a lack of passion, caring, concern or boredom. A stiffness in hand gestures and posture may also indicate intimidation or fear.

Many who are unable to communicate verbally learn sign language and communicate quickly and efficiently with others who understand hand sign language. Sign language is also taught to children who find it difficult to start communicating. Many with certain limitations find they can communicate with their hands in a way they cannot do verbally.

Tags: other person, also conveys, another person, non-verbal message, those with, those with whom

The Typical Menu For A 1yearold

A 1-year-old needs regular, small meals.

Babies rely on their parents to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet. We all harbor concerns for the health of our children as they grow up in an era of fast food and escalating obesity rates. One solution is helping them to develop good eating habits. The menu you choose for a 1-year-old is his first introduction to eating patterns that will stay with him for a lifetime.

Milk and Dairy Products

Children take their first steps between ages 1 and 2. Their increased activity and burning of energy needs to be complemented by a varied diet. Children over age 1 need less milk than babies. Whole milk, not skim, and full-fat dairy products provide the vitamin A children under 2 need to fight infections and maintain healthy eyes and skin. Give milk in small childproof cups, not bottles. To provide enough calcium for strong bones and teeth, feed the child milk or milk-based products such as cheese or yogurt three times daily.

Carbohydrates

Children under 2 have tiny stomachs, so they need regular small meals and healthy snacks in between. Carbohydrates such as bread, potatoes, rice, pasta and cereals should constitute the main part of every meal. Children love to sample the tastes and textures in this food group. Proceed with caution when introducing your child to whole-grain foods such as whole-wheat bread, because they may fill her up and prevent her from getting enough calories. Avoid bran-enriched cereals, which interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron.

Fruit and Vegetables

Rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, colorful, flavorful fruit and vegetables enhance any mealtime. Let your child experiment with different varieties. Fresh, frozen, canned or dried, fruit and vegetables benefit your 1-year-old's development. Offer fruit and vegetables with every meal.

Protein and Iron

The protein and iron in meat, fish, eggs and nuts is essential for the proper growth of a 1-year-old. The zinc in meat and fish helps heal wounds and supports the body's immune system. Avoid shark, swordfish and marlin because of possible high levels of mercury, harmful to a child's nervous system. Because of dioxins and PCBs, limit oily fish to two portions a week for girls and four portions for boys.

Tags: fruit vegetables, every meal, meat fish, regular small, regular small meals, small meals

Rv Camping On Florida'S West Coast

Western Florida provides RV campers with multiple parks along the Gulf Coast.

Western Florida features multiple RV camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts inland or along the Gulf Coast. The attractions of the Sunshine State's west coast include beaches such as Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota and the Lee Island Coast. In addition to beaches, fishing, and other water sports, RV camping along Florida's western front provides tourists an affordable way exploring the coastline and popular cities such as Tampa. The multiple amenities and hookups at RV resorts allow travelers to stretch their dollars and enjoy the warm tropical climate and white sandy beaches.

Climate

Although the west coast, Tampa in particular, offers a year-round semi-tropical climate, summer becomes thunderstorm season. Planning trips around rainy season can put a damper on vacation plans if individuals do not enjoy a bit showers now and then. In addition humidity during the summer months can be unbearable as temperatures reach 90 degrees and humidity levels approximate 100 percent. Some of the ideal months to visit the area fall between December and March.

Types

Cost for RV camping depends upon the resort or park. Most RV parks feature basic hook-ups, 30-50 amp service and amenities such as Internet service, restrooms, picnic tables, showers and patios. Prices range from $25 to $40 per night. Resorts on the other hand feature planned activities, pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, big rig accommodations, laundry facilities, recreation halls, shuffleboard, fishing, boating and golfing. Resorts offer hotel-like perks without the expense. Prices range from $30 to $60 a night

Attractions

Some of the major recreational activities that attract tourists to Florida's West Coast include RV resorts or parks near beaches and golf courses. Sarasota County features miles of coastline and according to the Sarasota County Government Online hosts more than 150 parks and recreational sites spanning approximately 4,000 acres. Visitors staying at RV parks near Fort Myers can benefit from Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Bowditch Point Park, Matanzas Pass Wildlife Preserve and Estero Back Bay. Tampa Bay Beaches reach as far as St. Pete Beach to Johns Pass and up toward Indian Rocks Beach. The 26 miles of beaches and vibrant night life make RV parks close to Tampa popular.

Robert's Mobile Home & RV Resort

Robert's Mobile Home & RV Resort offers 450 hook-up sites, 400 of which feature 50 amp services. Available RV sites at this St. Petersburg resort include room for slideouts, big rig sites, grass sites and shaded sites. The pet-friendly facility is only 15 minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico and one mile away from Tampa Bay beaches. Amenities include showers, restrooms, RV storage, and on-site security. In addition campers can enjoy the heated pool, Jacuzzi, mini-golf, tennis, volleyball or shuffleboard.

Woodsmoke Camping Resort

Woodsmoke Camping Resort, located near Fort Myers Beach, features 300 full hook-up sites with 75-foot concrete pull-throughs providing 50 amp services. Campers can take advantage of the two nearby lakes to go fishing or enjoy the nearby nature trails. Other amenities include a heated pool, bathhouses, laundry facilities, whirlpool, large club house, horse shoes, billiards, shuffleboard and WiFi.

Tags: along Gulf, along Gulf Coast, away from, Camping Resort, Florida West, Florida West Coast, Fort Myers

Making A Hula Hoop

Hula hoops aren't just for kids --- adults also use them for enjoyment and exercise.

Hula hoops are popular means of entertainment for children and adults alike. Hooping has become more than just a driveway pastime enjoyed by children, but something that many people use as a form of exercise and as an expression of culture. Making a hula hoop may seem like a complicated process, but in actuality, it is far easier than it may seem.

Instructions

1. Determine the purpose of your hula hoop. If you will be making the hula hoop for a child's use, choose a lighter tubing, such as one with a 3/4 inch diameter. If the hula hoop is for an adult, choose tubing with a 1 inch diameter.

2. Choose the size of your hoop. According to editor of hooping.org, Jason Unbound, the best way to determine the size of your hoop, apart from measuring a particular circumference, is by measuring a hoop with the tubing so that it falls between your shoulders and naval.

3. Using a sharp blade, cut the tubing according to your desired measurements.

4. Add optional items to the hoop based on your purpose. According to Unsound, in his article, "Make a Hula Hoop," if you are making a weighted hula hoop for exercise purposes, you can increase the hoop's weight by pouring water or sand into the tubing. If the hoop is for a child or for other use, consider adding beads or beans inside of the tubing as a means of creating noise with your hula hoop.

5. Heat the ends of the tubing in order to make them pliable enough to receive the insert connector. Use a hair dryer and hold it above the ends until pliable, or soak the ends in hot water.

6. Take the insert connector, whose size coordinates with the size of your tubing, either 1 inch or 3/4 inch, and use it to connect each end of your tubing. Insert it, and then push each of the ends toward the other so that the tubing ends completely cover the connector.

7. Decorate your hula hoop. Use brightly colored, decorative tape and wrap it around the hoop to create a design.

8. Go hula hoop!

Tags: hula hoop, size your, your hula, your hula hoop, hoop child, hula hoop

Tiki Crafts For Kids

Tikis are statues carved from wood or stone.

According to QuesTiki.com, the word "tiki" originally referred to a figure carved into stone or wood, usually in the form of a necklace, statue or mask. The term gradually evolved to represent an entire island culture that includes other tropical elements such as leis, torches and bright colors. Tiki culture has endured frequent resurgences of popularity and retains the exaggerated human forms that gave the movement its name. Kids can celebrate the tiki culture with crafts inspired by an island theme.

Tiki Bookmark

Create fringe around the tiki bookmark using burlap.

Never lose your place in a book again with a tiki bookmark craft from Hands On Crafts for Kids. Make a tiki bookmark by cutting a piece of white fabric interfacing into a bookmark that is 2 3/4 inches wide and 9 1/2 inches long. Combine 2 tsp. of instant coffee and 1 cup of water in a pie pan or other large, flat dish. Mix together one time so that not all of the coffee dissolves. Lay the bookmark in the pie pan and turn it so that both sides absorb the coffee color. Remove the bookmark and let it dry. Draw a tiki totem on the bookmark with permanent markers. Cut a piece of burlap that is 3 1/4 inches wide and 10 inches long. Dip the burlap in water, and then use a paintbrush to cover it with glue. After the burlap has dried, glue the bookmark on top and flatten it under a heavy object for 5 minutes. Cut the edges of the burlap to create fringe around the bookmark. Use the bookmark to save your place in a favorite book.

Tiki Torch

Make a tiki torch using a flashlight.

Light up the night with the safe tiki torches designed by Disney Family Fun. Paint a paper towel tube brown and let it dry. Cut six 1 inch slits on one end of the paper towel tube. Fold the tabs down and tape in place to create the bottom of the torch. Cut flame shapes from red, orange and yellow tissue paper. Arrange the flames around the inside of the paper towel tube and tape or glue in place. Turn on a small flashlight and insert it in the tube so that the light shines through the top and illuminates the tissue paper flames. Hold the tiki torch while exploring the outdoors or playing night time versions of tag or hide-and-seek.

Decorative Tiki Lei

String straws and flower shapes together to make a tiki lei.

Welcome a guest or honor a loved one with a decorative tiki lei idea from First Palette. Cut out flower and leaf shapes from colored construction paper or craft foam. Make a hole in the middle of each flower or leaf shape using a hole punch. Cut colored straws into 1 inch pieces. Thread the straws, leaves and flowers onto a length of string or yarn in an alternating pattern. Tie the ends of the yarn together to create a wearable lei necklace.

Shell Picture Frame

Decorate a picture frame with sea shells to bring back memories of a tiki party.

Display photographs that will bring back memories of a tiki party or a day at the beach with a sea shell frame craft adapted from NickJr. Collect shells from the beach or purchase them at a craft store. For a natural look, simply glue the shells around a wide, flat picture frame. Adults may need to hot glue larger shells onto the frame. For a brighter look, paint the sea shells in tropical colors before gluing onto the frame. Once the glue has dried, insert a photograph into the frame.

Tags: paper towel, paper towel tube, tiki bookmark, towel tube, back memories, back memories tiki, bring back

Preschool Health & Safety Lesson Plans

Teaching health and safety to preschoolers requires balancing information that is important against information a preschooler can understand. Taught properly, preschoolers can understand and apply a surprising amount of information.

Hygiene

Subjects to cover under hygiene health include the importance of washing hands, brushing teeth and regular baths.

Disease Prevention

Preschoolers can understand why they need to cover the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing, as well as the basics of body fluid safety.

Basic Nutrition

Even the food pyramid is a bit complex at this level, but simple rules such as "eat vegetables with every meal" and "snack on fruit, not cookies" are appropriate.

Basic Fitness

Many preschoolers haven't developed the motor skills for jumping, skipping or push-ups. Instead focus on how fun it is to be active and play games with a strong exercise component.

Stranger Safety

Though not psychologically ready for the graphic risks of stranger abduction, preschoolers can learn which strangers are safe to approach if lost in public. This lesson should also include helping the child memorize parents' full names and, if possible, phone numbers.

Good Touch/Bad Touch

Even preschoolers are old enough to learn to report adults who touch or ask to be touched in the "bathing suit area(s)."

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Luau Activities For The Classroom

Have some luau-themed fun with your students.

Bring the excitement of the tropics into your classroom by preparing luau activities for your students. With activities centered around this island theme, you can catch students' interest and encourage them to willingly participate in the academically enriching activities that you have prepared for their benefit.

Tiki Torch Math Relay

Get students excited about doing math with an arithmetic-rich luau-ready relay. To prepare for this relay, create paper cut outs of tiki torches. Make 40 torches and divide them into four piles of 10 each. Number the torches in each group one to 10 prominently. Attach magnets to the back, and place each collection separately on your chalkboard.

When students arrive in class, divide them into four groups. Create four places for groups to sit that are an equal distance from your torches. Tell students that you are going to write one math problem on the board at a time and, as they solve it, they should run up and get the torch, then bring it to you. Inform the students that the first team to accomplish this task will earn a point, and the team with the most points at the end will win the game. Write problems with solutions that are 10 or less, on the chalkboard one at a time. Tally the points as teams earn them.

Luau-Inspired Stores

Get students writing with a luau-inspired story activity. To prepare for this activity, gather an assortment of things that are relevant to a luau. Include in your collection things like a grass skirt, a lei, a tropical umbrella and a bathing suit. Place your collected items in a fabric bag or pillowcase.

When time for the activity arrives, ask students to take turns pulling objects from the bag. Tell them that they must write stories based upon the objects that they pull. Once all students have written their stories, allow them to share and vote for the story that best represents a luau atmosphere.

Parts of Speech Leis

Practice parts of speech with your students while making attractive leis. To prepare for this activity, find a tropical flower shape, size it to approximately two inches in diameter and make copies of it. Give each student eight copies of this flower, along with coloring supplies, tape, scissors and string. Ask the students to cut out their flowers, then label each one with one part of speech, placing the part of speech name prominently at the top of the flower. Once all flowers are labeled, ask students to write an example of the listed part of speech on each. Attach each student's flower to string using tape to finish the educational, and luau-themed, piece of natural jewelry.

Tags: part speech, prepare this, your students, divide them, divide them into, each student, into four

Unique Activities In Kauai Hawaii

The Island of Kauai is the northernmost and oldest of the islands that make up the state of Hawaii, according to the Kauai Visitors Bureau. The island's 550 square miles of land offer a wealth of attractions for tourists that are unique to Kauai. Visitors to these attractions can engage in a variety of activities and experience a vacation that can't be duplicated anywhere else.

Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon State Park is about 11 miles north of the town of Kekaha on the west side of Kauai. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources oversees the facility. The park serves one of Kauai's unique landforms, a canyon that extends to a depth of 3,600 feet. Visitors to Waimea Canyon State Park can hike to the floor of the canyon via the Kukui Trail. The trail travels 2.5 miles, with more than a 2,400 foot change in elevation from beginning to end. With its rocky terrain, the hike is difficult, but it provides a one-of-a-kind view of Waimea Canyon. The park is open daily, year round, and no entry fee is charged. Restrooms are located at the park, but drinking water isn't available.

Allerton Garden

A section of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, Allerton Garden is in the Lawai Valley, south of the town of Kalaheo on the south shore of Kauai. The U.S. Congress commissioned the park in 1964, making it the first and only tropical botanical garden that has a federal charter. The National Tropical Botanical Garden hosts guided tours of Allerton Garden. The tour includes a tram ride and walk, and lasts about 2 and 1/2 hours. Visitors hear about the history of the park area and learn about many of the tropical plants found throughout the garden. The Allerton Garden is open daily throughout the year, and no admission fee is assessed. The cost of the guided tour was $45 as of October 2010, with reduced rates for children. Reservations are required for the tour. Restrooms and drinking water are located at the gardens,.

Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park

Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park is located along the mouth of the Waimea River off Kaumuali'i Highway on the west side of Kauai. The area is the site of a former Russian military installation built and operated from 1815 to 1817. The spot is the only surviving site of its kind in the state of Hawaii. Visitors can tour the remnants of the facilities in a self-guided walk, with an accompanying brochure to help point out the history and interesting spots at the park. The park also provides views of the Waimea River and the surrounding valley. The park is open daily throughout the year, with no admission fee. Restrooms and drinking water are available.

Tags: Allerton Garden, Waimea Canyon, Canyon State, Canyon State Park, drinking water, open daily

Places To Have A 13th Birthday Party In Dallas

Teens celebrating their 13th birthdays in Dallas have many options.

Teens celebrating a memorable birthday such as their 13th most often want it to be an experience they and their friends will remember for many years. The Dallas, Texas area offers many options for places to achieve that wish. Whether teens want fun, adventure, fine dining or casual eats, interactive fun or theatrical performances, they can find it all in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Does this Spark an idea?

The Magic Time Machine

The Magic Time Machine has been providing food and entertainment for more than 35 years. A great facility for a 13-year-old's birthday party, The Magic Time Machine has food options such as prime rib, grilled chicken, seafood, mozzarella sticks and pork. The workers provide improvisational skits, all while dressed up as well-known characters such as Captain Jack Sparrow, Cinderella, Bat Girl and Little Red Riding Hood.

The Magic Time Machine

5003 Beltline Dr.

Dallas, TX 75254

972-980-1903

magictimemachine.com

Medieval Times

Medieval Times in Dallas is housed in a castle that will provide the royal treatment for a 13th birthday party. Guests will dine on a four-course meal as they enjoy a dinner show themed around Knights.

Medieval Knights offers birthday packages that include free admission to the guest of honor, a "Happy Birthday" message during the performance, a photo of the group, cake and reasonable pricing per person. The menu includes roasted chicken, spare ribs, garlic bread, soup, potatoes and dessert. Vegetarian meals are also available at Medieval Times.

Entertainment includes special effects, jousting, hand-to-hand combat and performances on stallions. Kings, princesses, battles and knights all add up to an experience teens and party guests of all ages will enjoy.

Medieval Times

2021 N. Stemmons

Dallas, TX 75207

866-543-9637

medievaltimes.com

Adventure Landing

Adventure Landing provides fun for all age groups. Party guests celebrate a birthday party here have a choice of activities and can enjoy arcade tokens, pizza and soda.

Activities at Adventure Landing include an 18-hole miniature golf course with tunnels and waterfalls, laser tag, a go-kart track, batting cages and bumper boats. The arcade has more than 80 games and a redemption center to trade in winning tickets for a wide selection of merchandise.

Adventure Landing

17717 Coit Rd.

Dallas, TX 75252

972-248-4653

adventurelanding.com

Three Hundred

Bowling alleys have gotten a makeover with the creation of Three Hundred, an upscale bowling alley plus much more. A 13th birthday party at this venue will be take place in a hangout with updated lanes, large video screens, dining options and an attentive staff.

Party packages include bowling shoes, a party attendant, invitations, thank you cards, pizza, drinks, goodie bags and table settings. Guest can sign a bowling pin for the birthday teen. Party hosts also have the option of purchasing a customized Cold Stone Creamery birthday cake.

Three Hundred

3805 Belt Line Rd.

Addison, TX 75001

972-620-770

threehundred.com

Tags: Adventure Landing, Magic Time, Magic Time Machine, Medieval Times, Time Machine, birthday party

Maui Hotels With Children'S Pools

Maui has become more kid-friendly in recent years.

Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii and home to some of the most beautiful topography on earth, a slew of fantastic restaurants and lodgings fit for a king. Maui also has become quite the child-friendly destination in recent years. You're sure to find a hotel with a special children's pool that will please you and your family.

Four Seasons Maui

The Four Seasons sets the standard for luxury on Maui. You can keep your kids occupied at a large children's pool that includes a slide and a variety of pool toys. Other amenities for kids include child-sized bathrobes and complimentary baby toiletries. The Kids for All Seasons program is designed for children ages 5 to 12 and includes a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Consumer reviews on TripAdvisor.com rate the Four Seasons as the No. 1 hotel on Maui.

Four Seasons Maui

3900 Wailea Alanui Drive

Maui, HI 96753

(808) 874-8000

fourseasons.com

The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui, is the only luxury all-suite and villa oceanfront resort in Hawaii. It was ranked No. 1 on the 2008 list of family-friendly resorts in Hawaii by "Travel & Leisure Family Magazine." The Keiki Lani Club is a daily program for kids ages 5 to 13 that focuses on teaching kids about Hawaiian culture in a fun environment. A separate outdoor play area includes a children's pool. The hotel offers world-class restaurants, pools and a spa for adults.

The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

4100 Wailea Alanui Drive

Wailea, HI 96753

(808) 875-4100

fairmont.com/kealani

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is on Kaanapali Beach, surrounded by 40 acres of lush scenery. The resort has several kid-friendly pools, including Napili Pool, a 3,000-square foot pool with a large water slide, rope bridge and whirlpool, and a separate interactive children's pool called Keiki Lagoon, which is 18 inches deep and has a sand shore, lava rocks and mist sprayers. A sand-covered island sits in the middle of the Keiki Lagoon pool, with spouting water fountains that shoot water up to 10 feet high. Adults can relax in the day spa or enjoy golf at one of two championship golf courses.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa

200 Nohea Kai Drive

Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761-1985

(808) 661-1234

hyatt.com

Kamaole Sands

Kamaole Sands sits on a 15-acre site directly across from Kamaole Beach. It specializes in family-friendly lodging. The hotel features a swimming pool, separate kids pool, two whirlpool spas and a sun deck. The spacious, condo-style rooms are great for families who want a little extra space. The grounds are spread out and rarely crowded.

Kamaole Sands

2695 S. Kihei Road

Kihei, HI 96753-8678

(808) 874-8700

kamaolesands.com

Tags: children pool, Four Seasons, Fairmont Lani, Fairmont Lani Maui, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Regency Maui