For active kids (and their parents), you can also run a carnival with many active games.

This requires a lot of supervision!  We wouldn't try this unless you have several willing carnival workers (aunts, uncles, friends) to help run the events. Here are three of our favorites:

( International Playthings $$12$& up ) Four big plastic spoons are loaded with bright eggs to balance as kids race for the finish line. But watch out—if you drop the egg, it cracks and a yoke falls out! A classic game with fabric yokes that are less messy, and no risk of salmonella! They say 3 & up, we’d say more like old 4s and 5–6s. Great for a party! (800) 445-8347. Age: Preschool. Phone: 800-445-8347. Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2006

( Alex $$14.99$ ) Perfect for foot races! Kids hold on to the ropes that hold the giant foam monster feet under their own feet. Pull on the sturdy rope handles and see who clomps the fastest! They say 3, we'd say more like 4 & up. Age: Phone: 800-666-ALEX. Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2007

( Step 2 $$39.99$ ) Arrange the 21 piece set into a custom made 3 hole course. Pieces snap together easily and each “green” has a hole in one. Can be used indoors and out. Comes with two putter, two balls, three flags, a clown's mouth, windmill, and spinner. They say 2 & up, we'd say more like 3 & up. Our testers found that the first hole was very easy to do (and satisfying). The next two holes take more practice (and more shots)...which is fine with most kids and frustrating to those who feel that they should golf like Tiger already! Age: Preschool, Early School Years. Phone: (800) 347-8372. Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2007