Create a Memorable but Manageable Event
By Deb Maes, Extension Educator in Family & Consumer Resources with the UNH Cooperative Extension in Grafton County
Q Now that my child is in school he hears about other students having birthday parties and his birthday is coming soon. Help! Birthday parties when I was growing up were family affairs. Where do I start?
A Some parents start planning their child’s birthday party months in advance. Others want to ignore the whole thing. Kids look forward to parties and parents cringe. How can we strike a happy medium?
First and foremost, plan a party you can mange, people-wise and money-wise. A rule of thumb is to invite one child for each year of the child’s age. This works until the teen years when you will probably want to scale back the numbers.
Children that are very young are not going to remember their parties. Any elaborate efforts you make are for the guests not the guest of honor. At that age a party of family members or very close friends only would be appropriate. Young kids can get overwhelmed with too much excitement. Keep the numbers small and the party short.
Once a child starts participating in play groups or organized classes you will notice an increase in invitations to other parties and pressure from your child to have their own party. Resist the temptation to go overboard in terms of expenses and numbers of guests. One way to include everyone in your child’s class is to hold a small celebration at your child’s school. However, some schools have adopted policies regarding parties and food sent in to the classrooms. Ask about your school’s policy.
When planning a party, remember the rule—keep it simple. Theme parties can be very time-consuming and expensive to manage. Look on the Internet for dozens of theme ideas or check out a local party store Kids still love the games you played as a child; musical chairs, pin the tail on the donkey, etc. Organize a craft activity that will keep kids occupied and provide a party favor for each child. Keep food options simple. Some juice, cake and ice cream and finger foods are appropriate. Try fresh fruits and vegetables with dips. Give parents of guests a chance to let you know about any potential food allergies and plan your menu accordingly.
As kids get older you may want to plan special outings—museums may host parties relieving you of much of the work. Have a talk with your child to find out what they really want and who they want to invite. Don’t force your wishes on your child. Keep in mind the birthday party should be for the child, not the parent.
Consider the following safety tips. Keep a first aid kit handy. Child-proof dangerous areas or items around your house—a swimming pool, workshop, cleaning or lawn chemicals. Specify a beginning and ending time and make sure rides are pre-arranged. Hire a neighbor’s son or daughter to help you get set up and during the actual party.
Whether it is a birthday other type of celebration, plan ahead and make sure you and the special guest are happy with the plans. Your goal is to create memories you can both enjoy for years to come.
Deb Maes is an Extension Educator in Family and Consumer Resources with the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension in Grafton County.