Im planning my son's 2nd birthday. We will have around 10 kinds, and 25 adults. Its in Feb, so theres no chance to have it outdoors, and to save money I want to have it at home. (At my parents' house actually, since they have more space). What can I do to keep 10 2 year olds busy enough, not fighting over toys the whole time, and not completely destroying my parents house? I was looking into hiring a kids musician to come, and I'm having trouble finding one. Too young for games... I'm at a loss.
Re: 2nd Birthday Party Woes
The stations idea is a great idea. There are also a few games that could possibly be played.
1. Throw the bean bag in the hoop
2. Fill a tub with water and place rubber ducks in it. Choose a duck and pick a prize.
3. Ring around the rosy
4. Musical chairs (just don't take any chairs away, and make sure there are enough for everyone)
5. Coloring/craft
6. Dance to music
7. Play with balloons
Honestly, for DS 2nd birthday party I had the whole time mapped out with all sorts of games. The kids ended up entertaining themselves with toys scattered around the house. I think we ended up only playing two games, and not everyone participated.
I don't know what your theme is but for my DDs 1st birthday (Winter ONEderland) I had Giant gingerbread men for the kids to frost and decorate. I lucked out and got the whole kits from Costco on sale after Christmas. The kids ranged from age 1 to 8 and they all loved the activities.
For DDs 2nd birthday I hired a face painter.
You can have the kids make fruit loop necklaces. My kids LOVE doing that and its cheap and easy.