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Cotton's
BIRTHDAY PARTY
planning guide
Planning your child's birthday party doesn't have to be an ordeal. . Here are some suggestions based on Cotton's experience. A birthday party is a BIG event in a child's life,, and excitement can be expected to run high. You can successfully provide a party that is fun for all participants, and avoid overwhelming your child by limiting the number of guests, activities and pre-party enthusiasm. At parties where the host-parents are relaxed, the birthday child and guests enjoy the party.
1. Two hours is a good time span for a younger child's party. Since guests do not arrive at the same time, It is good to schedule a one hour entertainment segment thirty minutes after you have asked everyone to arrive.
2. When entertainment is provided, the guests should be asked to remain in the area during the performance. It is fun to explore the birthday child's house, and especially their bedroom. This can be a big distraction for everyone. Tell any curious guests that you will invite them to visit another time, when they can see your home. While the other parents may tend to socialize, everyone will enjoy the party tremendously if the parents are encouraged to engage with their child in the activities.
3. Prior to your party, put up all special toys or items that could cause a problem if little hands find them.
4. It is best to prepare a rain plan.
5. Keep the food simple. Pizza (cut into half slices), hot dogs (can pose a choking hazard for tiny ones), or finger sandwiches with pbj or cheese are fine. If you provide the sandwiches, you can make them in advance, and cut them with cookie cutter shapes.
5. Keep the food simple. Pizza (cut into half slices), hot dogs (can pose a choking hazard for tiny ones), or finger sandwiches with pbj or cheese are fine. If you provide the sandwiches, you can make them in advance, and cut them with cookie cutter shapes.
6. A small cooler containing small bottles of water is good to have nearby, where thirsty guests can serve themselves cuts down on your work...especially in the summer.
7. Box drinks are great, but try to purchase the ones with the least dye or coloring.. Little guests may transport them all over your house.
8. For an extra hand or two, "hire" one or two 11-13 year olds (neighbors?) to assist with the party. Let them know what you would like for them to do in advance.
9. Decide beforehand whether you want to have your child open presents during the party. While it can be hectic, most party guests like to see the birthday child's response to the gift they brought. While you manage the activity, have another parent take each just-opened gift and place in a bag for later. It is good to schedule gift opening for the very last.
10. If you plan on writing thank you notes, simply film the gifts being opened, mentioning who gave each gift. You can just watch the tape later to see who gave what.
11. Give your other children age-appropriate tasks pertinent to the party, so that they will feel included.
12. Enjoy planning, include the whole family in the process, and enjoy the party.
Cotton poses with the "Kinko's-Guy" Cardboard cutout person...
