As your kids get older, it gets harder and harder to plan cool birthday parties. Your children may begin to feel that they are too grown up, that birthday parties are only for little kids. Here are some tips for planning a more grown up party:
-Include your child in some of the decision-making and planning for the party. One idea is to allow him or her to select the invitations or design some on the computer and print them. You might also let your child choose some of the party favors, the flavors of the cake and ice cream, or some of the foods that will be served at the party.
-Provide assorted cans of soda instead of juice boxes or instant drink mix, and offer more grown up snacks like nachos or meatballs. Bigger kids have bigger appetites. Another fun idea is to let the kids make their own miniature pizzas with toasted bagels or English muffins. Provide sauce and lots of tasty toppings and just pop them in the microwave until the cheese is melted.
-Give small gifts instead of treat bags. A pack of markers, a Hacky-Sac, or cans of Silly String make great party favors (make sure they take Silly String outside). For treats, set a bowl of candy and gum on the table, and let each child fill a sandwich bag from the bowl before going home.
-Make cupcakes instead of purchasing or baking one large cake, and let the kids decorate their own. White or yellow cake works best so you can offer a variety of frosting flavors. Offer sprinkles, gel, and tubes of colored frosting for decorating. Provide a nice assortment of decorating items in lots of colors, and let the kids go for it. This is a great way to provide treats as well as entertainment.
*Look for more tips soon!