Do you remember all your birthday parties? Do you remember how stressed out your parents were planning everything? Probably not, but you certainly feel it now that the shoe is on the other foot. Don’t worry. We can make the experience as painless as possible. Check out these tips for planning your child’s birthday party.
Let Them Come Up With the Theme
You know what your child likes, but you don’t necessarily know what they want for a birthday theme. Make them feel special from the very beginning and include them in the planning process. Ask them what they want the theme to be.
From here, you can build on it. Think about their favorite activity or toy and include that in the theme somewhere. Also, consider a dress-up option because kids love when they get to play make-believe.
Make a Guest List
Next, determine the guest list. There are a lot of people to invite. Depending on your child’s age, they might be at that stage where everyone is their friend. Try not to leave anyone out. Ask them who they want to celebrate with.
Then, send out the invitations. Not everyone will be able to attend, but it’s good that you thought of them. Go old-school with it and send out paper invitations. You can choose either matte or glitter cardstock to print them on; just make sure it matches the theme.
Secure a Location
Now you need to find a spot that can hold everyone you invited. It’s better to secure the location before you get the RSVPs on the invite. You want to think ahead in case everyone says yes.
Remember, the weather is getting warmer, so you don’t need to stick with an indoor party if you don’t want to. If your backyard isn’t big enough, look at the local parks and see about securing a permit to throw a party for a couple of hours.
Determine Entertainment
Kids are good at entertaining themselves—they’re almost too good at it. But you should still find and secure some sort of entertainment for them.
The entertainment needs to be captivating enough that it holds the kid’s attention, but it doesn’t always need to be a clown or a magician. There are plenty of movie characters that come to children’s parties. You just need to find the one your child will love.
Give Out Party Favors
Finally, send the kids off with party favors—a little something to remind them how wonderful the entire day was. Don’t worry about the exact number of party favors. More is always better in case one goodie bag gets damaged or lost.
Plan the ultimate birthday party for your child, and they’ll love you more than they already do.
