Birthdays can be a big deal for a child. Although adults may write off their birthdays as merely a day they turn another year older, children can look forward to friends, gifts, cake, ice cream and parties. It's up to you to make your child's birthday the best it can possibly be.
Bottle Bowling for Baby Birthdays
First birthday parties are often difficult to plan as they are as much for the enjoyment of the adults as they are for the babies. Plan a few traditional party games like Pin the Tail on the Donkey and Red Light, Green Light for the older children who attend, but have things planned for the adults as well. Amazing Moms website recommends baby bottle bowling for the adults attending. Fill 10 baby bottles with water to weigh them down and arrange them in a triangle like bowling pins. Measure out an appropriate distance and take turns "bowling." The person with the most pins down at the end of the game wins.
Open Backyard Cinema
Celebrations.com recommends backyard movie parties for kids' birthday parties. This is best for summer birthdays and are great for birthday sleepovers or campouts. Pop a lot of popcorn for smaller parties, or consider renting a popcorn machine for larger parties. Drape a sheet across the back of the house and smooth it out. Rent a DVD projector and point it at the sheet. Be sure to have plenty of speakers available so that all of your guests can hear. If you have to rent a DVD projector ask about renting speakers as well if necessary.
Ask all of your guests to bring blankets, pillows and bug spray to keep mosquitoes away. Consider theming the entire party around your movie selection. If your party is large or your neighbors are close by be courteous and let them know about your movie party in advance.
Collect Love Notes
Find your favorite picture of your child, and mat and frame it. Ask your guests to write notes on the mat area of the picture telling your child why they love them or to name one reason why they are special. You may need more than one photo or a larger matted photo for parties with a lot of guests.
Plan a Luau
While cartoon character fads come and go, a luau is a timeless party idea great for kids and adults of all ages. For a child's birthday luau ask your guests to come in bathing suits and provide slip-and-slides, wading pools, sprinklers and other water fun. Purchase leis and grass skirts from your local party supply store to hand out as party favors for your guests.
For party decor, consider beach murals, sea shells, sand and colorful balloons and streamers to tie everything together and communicate the theme. Play tropical music in the background to give the feeling of an island paradise.
