from Pottery Barn Kids

Invitations can be as informal as an email to the girls' parents, or traditional paper invites. Either way, include in the invitation what to bring:

• Sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Pjs
• A favorite stuffed animal
• Book
• Toiletries
• Information about allergies and special needs

For younger girls, have friends bring a favorite stuffed animal or doll, and throw a tea party. Set up with small chairs and tables for the "guests," pour tea or water, fold small napkins and nibble on cookies.

A classic for chatty girls is "telephone" or nowadays "cell phone." The girls sit in a circle and whisper one by one a funny story on down to the last girl who repeats it aloud. For those with energy, play a fast paced song for "freeze dance." When the designated deejay stops the music, all must freeze. Anyone who moves is out. Scavenger hunts in the neighborhood, backyard or throughout the house work well for larger groups. For smaller parties, board games are always a hit. But perhaps the most popular activity at a sleepover is to sit back in a beanbag chair with a bowl of popcorn and watch a favorite movie.

Decorate pillow cases or extra-large men's tee shirts with fabric markers and have friends autograph. Another winner is to design slippers gluing fuzzy, soft fabric onto colorful flip flops. Or, make books ahead of time for the girls to collect autographs or interview each other. What is your favorite food? Who is your favorite singer? Who is your favorite teacher?

Have a plan but also be open and flexible for spontaneous ideas. Other tips:

• Set up a night-light in the bedroom, hallways and bathroom.
• Provide extra blankets and pillows.
• Ask if anyone wants to call home to say goodnight to parents.
• Set up a craft activity or have books or the remote accessible for early morning activities and establish what time you will be serving breakfast.