Keep an eye on them, but use your peripheral vision. Most kids this age prefer minimal parental involvement at the actual party. If your party will not incorporate a major activity, preteens can have fun playing board games designed for large groups, such as Scattergories. Old standbys, such as charades, are also popular with preteens. Place the cards in a hat and draw them out one at a time.
Guests attempt to match the answers with a person.
At the end, guests exchange cards with the person on the right, reveal the truth, and correct the cards. Favors and Food Favors are pretty much out for this group. Just remember, if you are going to a location where you are prohibited from bringing in your own food, it may cost you a bundle to feed the crowd. A good way to avoid this situation is to have the group meet just outside of the party location. Have food, including a cake, ready to go.