We all remember those pajama parties we had as children, right? Some of our friends came over and everyone bunked down in the Living room. We played our favorite Madonna songs, using our hairbrushes for microphones as we danced across the furniture.
We gyrated to our favorite bits, rattling with gilt chains around our necks as we yelled "Like a virgin," at the top of our voices. Our PJ's became frilly costumes and our slippers turned into chunky boots. In our imaginations, we looked just like her with the birds nest hair, the thick eyebrows and pouty lips.
We laughed at her pointy breast-holders and secretly wished for our own. Breasts, that is. We ate popcorn and drank shakes and sodas until we were sick. We stayed up late and fell in a heap wherever we happened to sprawl.
It was great fun. So, now you're a mother yourself. The twelve year old is having her friends over and you're wondering how to cope with a bunch of preteens? Well here's the good news. That old pajama party just went up a grade.
With a little foresight, they can have a karaoke sleepover-party. The best part, there's very little work involved.
Keep It Simple
Rent a machine with a couple of microphones and a good screen to view the lyrics. A colored disco lamp is fun too, but not necessary.
Choose The Music
- Ask your child. If your preteen is typical, you should have a good idea anyway. You've probably had her favorites blasting in your ears several times in the past week.
- The rental shop will often have a good selection and a song lit. More will be available at your music store along with title sheets. Or simply go online for local suppliers.
Order The Food
- Children haven't changed a whole lot since you were that age, so there's no need for elaborate menus. This is a fun night, not a health camp, so while you can be mindful of those with special food needs, stick to a short list.
- Potato chips, cookies, popcorn, pizza and health bar snacks are a good start
- You can even cut raw vegetables in thick, chunky sticks if you must. They'll probably be used for pretend microphones.
- Buy a mixture of soda and also some water bottles. Remember, kids love to make things themselves so fresh fruits and juices will be a good idea. Don't be surprised at their concoctions.
You might be tempted to hang around to shepherd the party along. Don't. Check you have everyone's home number for emergencies and make sure that they all know where you'll be.
All that's left for you to do is grab a book and make yourself scarce in your room. You might want earplugs. Your child is bound to want something through the evening, so she can have fun with her friends knowing you're only a (thin) wall away. Relax and let the party begin.
