Build excitement for the party before it even starts by having your child help you with the invitations. They'll appreciate being involved and look forward to the upcoming festivities.

• Get into the Halloween spirit while filling out your invitations: play spooky music, or turn off the lights and work with a dimmed lamp.
• Choose the most efficient part of the day to work. Is your child less restless after dinner, or would morning be a more productive time?
• While working on the invitations, talk with your child about the party: What activities to look forward to, who will be coming, and of course, what guidelines you may have for the party.