For the preteen crowd, this tropical island theme can be a real hoot--particularly if you challenge arriving guests to use the 12 letters of the Hawaiian alphabet (a, e, h, i, k, l, m, n, o, p, u, w) to come up with fun new nicknames to go by. If you have a pool, you're golden. If not, set up a sprinkler that the kids can run through to cool off between the party games.

INVITATION

Aloha! Guests will know they're in for a fun ride when they get this invite. To make one, use a craft knife (adults only) to cut an 8-inch-long surfboard shape out of Fome-Cor (sold at most craft or art supply stores) or cardboard. Cut an identical shape out of colorful Con-Tact paper. Stick the Con-Tact paper to the top of the surfboard and print on a fun announcement with a black marker. Print the rest of the information on the back, including a reminder for guests to wear their favorite beach attire.