Children count the days until their birthday and love to celebrate by inviting their friends to their party. However, organizing a child’s birthday party can be stressful when you already have a lot on your plate as a parent. Here are some tips to help make it as stress-free as possible.
Set a Budget
You might already have an idea of how much you want to spend on your child’s birthday based on the amount you paid last year. If you’re unsure of your budget, ask how much three all-inclusive party venues charge. Then, set your budget at the high, medium or low end of these charges depending on your financial circumstances.
Decide on a Venue
Would you prefer to hold your child’s birthday party at home or at a party venue?
Party venues, such as play centers and animal farms, benefit from economies of scale, so the actual cost per child can be lower than if you host a home-based party. Also, the staff at party venues organize games, entertainment, and food and drink, so all you need to do is turn up with the birthday cake.
If you decide to have a party at your home, hiring a children’s entertainer, such as a magician, comedian or face painter, will keep the kids amused while you put out the food.
How Many Children Should You Invite?
Another consideration is the number of children you’d like to invite. If you have a home-based party, you’ll need to limit the number of children unless you have a large house and yard. If you want to invite your child’s entire class, a party venue would be the best option.
Length of Party
For children under age five, a shorter party of one to one-and-a-half hours is best because young children get tired quickly. For children between the ages of 5 and 10, parties usually last between 2 and 3 hours.
Most venues have a set time for parties. Make sure parents know when to pick up their children from the party.
Party Themes
If you’re having a home party, ask your child to suggest some themes. These could be generic such as pirates or princesses or character-based themes. Some ideas are Thomas the Tank Engine, Ben 10 or Spiderman for boys or Dora the Explorer, Frozen or Hello Kitty for girls.
If you’re having the party at a venue, the venue may offer a choice of several different themes. They may also have several party rooms with various decorations.
Invitations
Once you’ve planned the party, you can send out invitations. Look for invitations on the theme your child has chosen. Instead of buying them, you could make them with your child or download and print invitations from websites. Some party venues provide invitations for you to fill in, making this task even easier.
Give out invitations at least two weeks before the party and set a deadline for replies. You’ll need to know how many children are coming at least a few days in advance so that you or the party venue know how many children they are catering.
Organizing a birthday party for your child doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and help from venues or entertainers, the party will go off with the minimum of stress, whatever your budget. Your child will enjoy an exciting day that they will remember for many years to come.
