Super Bowl Parties: Make Yours Family-Friendly

Decorations
Since all eyes will be on the tube, you don't have to go crazy with party decorations. But some football-themed party ware and decor will help get everyone — especially the kids — in the mood and fired up for the big game.

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Stock up on basic football-themed party supplies or go for the Super Bowl XLIV-specific party ware. In addition to plates, cups, napkins and table covers, you can find football lights, Super Bowl banners, balloons and even lawn signs to let everyone know where the party is.

Check out these Super Bowl Dinner Plates 16ct from Party City for $3.49.

Food
Food is one of the most important things to consider when hosting a Super Bowl party — or any party, really. But what you serve the grownups might not appeal to the younger crowd. In addition to pizza and chips, give them some other options like fresh fruit, ants on a log,  popcorn and sloppy Joes.

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Set the food out a large table with plates and utensils so the kids can help themselves. When choosing beverages, consider your carpet. Skip the bright red fruit punch and opt for light colored juices and sodas or water in a cooler separate from the grown-up drinks. 

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Watching the Game
Inviting guests over to watch the game is probably going to involve temporarily rearranging your furniture. Make sure every seat in the room has a view of the television and leave some space on the floor for the little kids to sit. You might even consider setting up a small television in another room so the kids can do their own thing without disturbing the die-hard fans.
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Activities
Since most kids will find it difficult to sit still for the entire game, give them an activity room they can retreat to when they get bored. Stop by the arts and crafts store and pick up supplies for making football-related crafts like a football handprint wreath or a toilet paper football player.

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Print up some football coloring pages and other game pages. If weather permits, take them outdoors to burn off some energy with a game of touch football, a homemade obstacle course or a game of hide and seek.

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