Activity for 8yo to do at 5th bday party

[LittleSilver]

My nearly 5 year old has insisted on inviting an adored older boy who I think is about 8 to her 5th birthday party . His mum grabbed me today at the gates and said, Oh, thank you so much for inviting X, I think he might be a bit shy about being the eldest so we'll just drop by for a few minutes to say hello and give her a present and then be on our way.

Well, I think it's very sweet of him to make the effort and dont want him to feel under pressure to join in any party games, so can anyone suggest something for him to DO whilst he is there, even just for a short time? he might feel even more embarassed if he's just standing there iyswim. Equally he may not want to join in with "pass the parcel".

I take it you don't have any older children who he can "be" with then?

But really it's only like my DS1 who is 10 being at DS2's party next month. Couldn't you say to the boy "oh I'm so glad you're here, I really need someone to [organise the music/stop the CD player (they all love that)/pick the winning statue/whatever else"?

I imagine he will come at the start - are you opening with craft or similar, or just starting in with a game? He could play the game - my older ones always have - or be a helper IYSWIM.

It's sweet of him to agree to come.

Yes wasn't it? Bless him. Great idea about the stereo, will do that, good thought.

I would also suggest he's needed in the guise of 'helper' and then he has the choice of joining in the games if he feels comfortable.