4 Fun Ways to Host a Silent Auction for Kids
Silent auctions are one of the great ways to raise funds. It is different from the traditional auction because the bidding process is not publicized nor is a loud auctioneer involved. The items to be auctioned are set up so everyone can see what is being offered. Each of the items to be auctioned has a starting or minimum bid. Those who are interested in an item will write a bid on a piece of paper and then submit it. Bidders have to wait and see if they won the item or if someone else outbid them. Preparing a silent auction for children will be twice as fun as arranging a conventional auction. Here are a few Silent Auction Ideas that might interest you:
Plan an auction with art as the theme
Make an attempt to arrange a silent auction having art as the theme. A great idea is to put all kinds of art materials that kids can use on various projects inside a basket. Customize each basket by using different sets of items. For example, you can fill one basket with arts and craft supplies intended for toddlers, such as clay, stickers, coloring books and finger paint. Another basket might contain art and craft materials that older children can use like acrylic paints, canvas frames, scrapbooks and paintbrushes. To make the auction more creative, decorate the venue like an art gallery with displays of paintings, drawings, crafts and other artwork made by kids.
Put up movie-night baskets for auction
Kids of all ages love movies. This idea can be your inspiration for your auction. Just simply fill baskets with movie-night items. Goodies included in the basket could range from gift cards to movie rental houses to movie posters to snacks like popcorn and candies. If the auction is targeted for older children, you can opt for tickets to the movie theater. You can add gift certificates entitling the children to visit and enjoy a local fast food chain or a snack bar where they may go before or after the movie.
Auction baskets filled with games and toys
Kids always enjoy having games and toys. You can auction off baskets filled with a wide variety of children's games and toys. You can have two baskets, one for boys which is filled with their favorite things like puzzles, model cars and superhero figures and another for girls filled with things like crowns, wands and dress-up clothes. Alternately, you can have a basket filled with various games fit for groups like Monopoly sets or Scrabble.
Auction various gift certificates
Silent auctions sometimes include services that can be bid upon. You can request sponsorship from the local businesses and service providers so they can give you gift coupons to be used at their stores and for their services. Babysitters with whom you are acquainted with can also offer services that can be availed through gift certificates. This can also make the auction interesting for parents. Some items you might consider including are gift certificates to toy stores, theme parks, or child-friendly restaurants.
Always make the silent auction you are organizing fun and appealing to the kids. Make your imagination your only limit for the great things you can do for the event.
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