Setting up an obstacle course of fun for a party

April 21, 2009

Of all the activities and games that are featured at various children's parties, none may conjure up as much unbridled joy as an obstacle course in the backyard.

They're fun, easy to set up and, if you're a lucky parent, the kids will be wiped out from all the physical activity afterwards. Don't forget a timer and to be sure, no matter what they place, everyone gets a prize.

The first step is to be sure you have a big enough back yard to handle a decent-sized obstacle course, especially since a typical course will have seven events, or stations as they are sometimes called.

While the events are completely within your realm of creativity, there are some mainstays that can always bring a lot of fun to the party activity.

Crawling under chairs can be one challenge followed by walking on a balance board (don't place it too high. A long 2-by-4 wood beam should do the trick). Incorporating a hula hoop and having participants get it around at least five times may be one that gets the most laughs.

Finally, don't forget to use some toilet paper that's been strung up so the kids can cross the finish line and feel like a pro.