Invitations

• An actual invitation creates a visual reminder for the guests, which is key during the busy holiday season. Printed invitations with a Christmas theme make a simple option for inviting guests. Another option is to make your own invitations. Cut out ornament shapes from card stock and let your child decorate them. Write down all of the information about the tree-trimming party on the back side of the invitation. If you want the parents to stay during the party, specify that on the invitation. Some parents might assume they can drop their children off at your house and return later. Don't forget to write down the RSVP information so you find out ahead of time how many kids and parents to expect.
  
  

Preparation

• Preparation before the party streamlines the process once the kids arrive. Set up the tree the day before. Add lots of lights to the tree ahead of time as well. These two steps save lots of time and prevent the kids from standing around waiting. Gather all of the necessary supplies for your party activities and refreshments so you aren't racing around right before the party. This ensures that you have the necessary party supplies on hand and won't need to make a last minute dash to the store for something you forgot.
  
  

Activities

• The tree trimming is the obvious activity for the party. Set out the decorations for the kids to place on the tree. Another option is a cranberry and popcorn garland station. Set up the materials away from the tree to avoid lots of people in one small area. The kids help string the materials to create the garland. An ornament-making station is another activity idea. Set out the materials necessary to decorate simple ornaments. Provide enough materials so each child can make two: one for your tree as a keepsake and one to take home for his own tree. Keep each activity in a separate area for better organization.
  
  

Snacks

• Every party needs refreshments to satisfy the guests. Because the kids will stay busy with the tree trimming, finger foods and appetizers work well on the party menu. Set up the food in the kitchen so it stays away from the tree and crafting areas. Pizza and sandwiches are also relatively easy for kids to eat. Cut the sandwiches into Christmas shapes with a Christmas cookie cutter to give them a festive appearance. Eggnog is a fitting beverage for the party. Juice in either green or red also works for those who don't like the taste of eggnog.