Here are a few more ideas to help you plan cool birthday parties as your kids get older:
-Have the party at a park or ball field and have a game of basketball, softball, or soccer instead of playing “kiddy” games. Remember that even big kids like prizes, so provide prizes for the winning team. Make sure the prizes are cool. Temporary tattoos for boys and lip-gloss for girls are a couple of good ideas.
-Instead of a regular party, let your child choose a place to take a couple of friends, such as the bowling alley. Check with one in your area to see what kinds of specials they offer. Some bowling alleys will let you rent a lane for an hour and will include shoes in the price, rather than charging you per person, per game. There is usually a limit of four or five children per lane.
-Take your child and a few friends to the movies. See if your local theater offers a matinee or other discount viewing time. Establish in advance which snacks and treats will be included in the outing.
-You can always fall back on a slumber party, but don’t just host the average old overnight party. Make sure you offer plenty of activities. Try a craft project, such as letting kids paint their own t-shirts. You might also want to buy the hottest new board game for the occasion or rent a couple of the video games or have a movie marathon. Take all the kids with and let them pick out movies from the video store, if you’re brave enough! You might want to enlist your spouse or a friend for back up.
By this point, you have had some experience in throwing birthday parties. Use these tips and your experience to come up with even more ideas that will make children’s birthdays memorable, no matter how big they are, and don’t forget to ask for your child’s input.