Let’s face it… throwing a kid’s birthday party can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. With our two kids I have learned a few things about making it as stress-free as it can be. Here is what I do to keep it fun and easy!
– Guest List: It starts with the right guest list. Try to keep it small, with people who generally know each other…and do invite parents.
– Invitations: Use an evite to have guests RSVP in advance. This gives you an idea of the number of kids and adults to plan for.
– Theme: Have a theme but keep it simple. Forget `Game of Thrones` and think sports, favorite costume, or a princess theme. It sets the right tone and kids love dressing up.
– Decorations: For decorations the Dollar Store is your best friend. It is cheap with lots of decorating options. This includes all disposable paper plates, serviettes, plastic cups, and cutlery, as well as garbage bags. This makes clean up super easy.
– Drinks: Have wine, beer and alcohol unhand for parents (if you’re at a venue other than your private home, check to see that this is allowed). This always keeps parents happy. For kids and non-drinking parents have an assortment of individual juice boxes, milk, and water available.
– Snacks: Serve healthy kid-friendly finger foods like carrots and strawberries.
– Food: Have pizza delivered. Period.
– Desserts: As far as kids’ desserts go nothing is mess free, so go with something easy to serve that doesn’t drip like cupcakes. And there’s no shame in just buying them.
– Activities: Keep them simple. Organize activities like a piñata, face painting, and reading time if they are really young. But have a small play area with toys set up for those kids who prefer to play alone.
– Grab Bags: Have grab bags for each child and give it to them on their way out the door. Once again, the Dollar Store is great for buying things to stuff in grab bags. Avoid the slime though. No parent is ever happy to see that included.
– Delegate: Don’t try to do everything yourself. Since you are inviting parents and feeding them alcohol, have them earn it. Delegate tasks amongst the parents. Do this prior to the party. Find parents to:
- Take photographs (x 2 parents). Give them internet access so they can easily share the photos.
- Organize activities.
- Keep an eye over the kids and help any in need.
- Serve food.
- Clean up.
Most importantly, don’t forget the lawn card signage for the party!