Not sure how to decorate for your preteen's birthday party? Here are some current favorite themes and trends that will create a fun tone.
If you are planning to shop for themed decorations or gift items, here are a few that many ten- to twelve-year olds find exciting and fun. Of course, you may want to float them past your child to be sure they pass muster, but judging from consumer sales of clothes, toys, and other associated items with these images, you almost can't go wrong in choosing one of the following:
1. Check out Spiderman. "Spidey" is back in all his wall-climbing glory with the recent release of the ever-popular Spiderman 2 film. With his bold red and blue colors and unforgettable insignia, Spiderman is sure to be a welcome guest in adorning your son or daughter's birthday celebration area via paper table covering, banners, napkins, paper cups, and gift bags. Girls think he's cute and boys admire his daring, so either gender may enjoy this selection.
2. Look for Lord of the Rings. From wall paper to shirts and everything in between, Lord of the Rings is a huge success in every imaginable sphere of preteen influence. After sweeping the Academy Awards with its three motion pictures over a three-year period, Frodo, Sam, and Gandulf provide an exciting diversion at any preteen event. Look for the "Shire-green" background or stark-white wizard designs in posters and prints.
3. Surf for Sponge Bob. A hilarious escape for fans of all ages, Sponge Bob and his undersea friends offer contemporary kids' cartoon humor on the scale of the old Three Stooges or Tom and Jerry shows. Watery blue and creamy pink eye-catching colors make this a favorite with both genders. You may want to serve sea-oriented foods or snacks with this decor, such as tuna fish sandwiches or fish sticks.
4. American Girl has it all. Barbie's latest competitor is actually a series of dolls, complete with their own American history stories and accessories. The catalog is full of beautiful but pricey items that girls up through their early teens will find irresistible, whether as playthings or as collector's items. Look for American Girl decorations at card shops, supermarkets, or department stores.
5. Yu-Gi-Oh. Spelled more than one way, this perennial favorite has been around the block a time or two. The feature character stems from a Japanese animated cartoon show that runs in the late afternoon just about the time that kids get home from school. Playing cards and feature films are just some of the spin-offs from this popular theme, along with air-time "cousins" like Sailor Moon, which girls especially like. Near-supernatural power and a mission mindset are some of the well-known trademarks.
Of course there are more themes to choose from besides these, but now you have an idea of the scope and variety of trends that appeal to kids in the preteen category. Go shopping and have fun browsing the latest themes. Then order the birthday cake with your child's favorite character.
