For your child's third birthday, you can plan more involved activities. Children of this age have a longer attention span and are better able to follow directions.

Flour Bombs

This is strictly an outdoor activity and makes a fun alternative to water balloons. You may wish to set up a target or just let the children bomb the trees, pavement, and walls.

• For each flour bomb, fill ½ of a paper napkin with flour. Bring up the ends of the napkin and twist. Secure the bomb with a little bit of masking tape.

Party Hats

Skip the store-bought party hats this year. Your guests will enjoy making their own.

• Let each child choose a sheet of colored construction paper. Have them decorate one side with stickers, ribbons, bows, and confetti.

• When the paper is dry, you can fit the hat for each child. Roll the paper into a cone so that the opening fits on the child's head. Staple the cone closed along the seam.