Make your child's big day perfect with these five tips
Throwing a kid's birthday party can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful. Planning things to be just right whilst juggling daily responsibilities can cause parents to buckle under pressure. Luckily, we're here to help with one of the most challenging aspects of throwing the perfect kids' birthday party - choosing a theme. Follow this simple five-step process to get your party planning off to a roaring start.
1. Start with five of your child's interests
When choosing a kids' birthday party theme, start with five of your child's interests. What lights your little one up? Think about their favourite toys, movies, sports, animals, foods - everything that makes them unique.
Here are a few thought starters:
• Unicorns
• Racecars
• Dinosaurs
• Jungle Safari
• Superheroes
• Pirates
• Space Exploration
• Circus
2. Calculate a budget
When choosing a kids' birthday party theme, it's helpful to calculate a budget first as it will help you to eliminate options and narrow the field. For example, if you're choosing between a video game-themed party at an arcade or a superhero theme in a park, you may wish to select the cheaper venue.
A few other party favors that can add up depending on the theme:
• Food
• Elaborate cakes
• Activities
• Decorations
3. Make it seasonally appropriate and easily accessible for all guests
When choosing a kids' birthday party theme, it is essential to consider what will work best with the weather and that all or at least most invitees can participate. For example, a pool party at the tail end of summer could be risky, while a sport-themed party may not suit the youngest attending.
More examples to consider:
• Dietary restrictions - Will a venue-themed party be able to accommodate vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian or other diets?
• Required sporting gear - Will an ice-skating theme party require kids to bring their own skates or rent them?
• Themed activities - You don't want to do a pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey game if half the attendees are too young to participate!
4. Check for availability and feasibility
When choosing a kids' birthday party theme, it is important to consider the availability of venues and whether or not the theme is doable in the time you have to organize it. If a particular venue is unavailable or too difficult to put together with short notice, you'll have to cross it off the list.
Some examples of this would be:
• Activities like Go-Karting, skating, trampolining, etc.
• Themed decorations - do they exist or are they easy to find?
5. Let your child choose!
Now that you've narrowed down the options, ask your child to make the final decision. This will surely build excitement and make your little one feel valued and special. Involve them as much as possible in the decision-making process.
These tips will get you started on finding the perfect theme for your little one's special day. Kids' birthday parties can be as elaborate or as understated as you like. The most crucial part is that your child and their guests have a good time and enjoy each other’s company. Remember to take lots of photos you can cherish for years to come.
