I. Play some party games.

If you’ve decided on a specific party theme, you can easily adapt almost any game to fit it, using elements or characters related to it.

Try playing the game with your child. If he likes it, the others most likely will too.

Save more active games for going outside, and leave quieter games and crafts for playing indoors.

Prepare one or two extra games. That way you’ll have something to entertain the children with if your planned activities take less time than expected. If you can see that the kids don’t like a game, quickly wrap it up and switch to something else.

Have your games ready to go before the start of the party.

Try to either give a prize to each child, or none at all. These can be anything: candies, erasers, pencils, and other small trinkets.

As kids often find it hard to wait their turn, try to pick games that have everyone participating at the same time.

It's very important to clearly explain every game, and even better to show examples.

II. Sing and dance

Pick a few songs or dance with the kids, it always fun and keeps the party mood.

III. Creative activities

If your kid is fond of arts, pick some art activities like draw mom's portrait, or make a funny picture frame or even make something from real clay. At Michael's craft store they have a selection of party kits.

Jumping castles in the backyard are always a popular choice.
A couple of places to find castle rentals:

“Desert Jumping Castles” at www.djumps.com

“ Jump Maxx” at www.jumpingcastlestucson.com

V. Magicians and clowns

You can invite a magician or a clown -- some kids love it but some not so much, so it’s up to your child.
Here is some info:

“Fun Magicians” at www.funmagicians.com

“ Party animals” at www.partyanimals4kids.com

More Party Themes at www.amazingmoms.com/htm/kidsbirthdayparties.htm