Birthday parties are exciting, and sometimes too exciting. A coloring station gives guests something to do as they arrive, offers a calm break and doubles as a party favor.
Step 1: Match the theme
- Dino party: Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs
- Monster party: Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Monsters
- Mermaid or unicorn party: Trace Then Color: Mermaids, Unicorns and Other Cute Stuff
Step 2: Set up the table
- Cover the table with kraft paper or a plastic cloth
- Put supply caddies in the middle
- Have a stack of pages at each seat
- Set up a drying spot or a string line to display finished art
Step 3: Pick supplies
Crayons and washable markers are best for parties. Skip permanent markers and paint.
Step 4: Plan the timing
- Arrival: Coloring gives early guests something to do.
- Wind-down: After games and cake, a coloring break calms things down.
- Pickup: Kids color while waiting for parents.
Extras
- Name the character. Kids name their creation.
- Group mural. A long sheet where everyone adds a character.
- Birthday card station. Kids color a page for the birthday child.
Take-home art
Roll up pages with a ribbon, or put them in favor bags. See coloring party favors.
Keep it optional. Some kids will color the whole party; others will run off after one page.
Questions parents ask
What age is a coloring station good for?
Ages 2 to 10 especially, though older kids enjoy detailed pages.
How many pages do I need?
Two or three per guest, plus extras.
How do I keep it from getting messy?
Washable supplies, a covered table and wipes nearby.
About Kevin Coulston
Kevin Coulston is a cartoonist and member of the National Cartoonists Society who has written and illustrated more than 100 drawing, tracing and coloring books for kids, including the Trace Then Color series. Meet Kevin or browse all his books on FirstArtBooks.com.
