Tips For Planning Your Child's Birthday Party    by Susanne Myers

Planning a birthday party for your child can seem like a daunting task. There's a reason we only do this once a year, right? Use the tips you find below to throw your child a party that both of you will enjoy and it won't stress you out. Keep it simple, do some planning and turn this into the best birthday party ever.

Do The Planning

Planning the party ahead of time will not only ensure that you don't forget anything, but you will also be doing most of the work before the big day, giving you more time to celebrate the big day with your child. Jot down what you will be serving, what decorations you need and what your little guests will be doing when. Shop for as much of the items that won't go bad the week before the party. Get the rest the day before the party. Set some time aside the day before to decorate, set the table and bake the cake that night as well. Getting all this done ahead of time will leave you more time to enjoy the birthday party.

Disposable Dishes Are Your Friend

Don't you hate all the cleanup and dirty dishes after a party? Plus with that many kids, there is bound to be something broken if you bring out your regular plates and glasses. Instead, get a disposable table cloth and use paper plates, plastic forks and cups. When the party is over all you have to do is wrap it all up and toss it in the garbage.

Mom's Helpers

Have you thought of getting some help during and before the party? Give your spouse an errand or shopping list and as a few parents to stick around for the party. Another idea is to hire a high-schooler or older child in your neighborhood to help you the day before the party to get set up and then on the big day. This helper can entertain the kids, hand out cake and help with anything else that comes up during the party. You'll love having that extra pair of hands.

Short and Simple Works Best

You don't have to make this birthday party long and elaborate for everyone to enjoy themselves. Kids will get burned out on all the excitement rather quickly. Limit the party to about two hours and leave plenty of time for cake and watching the birthday kid open presents. Then just fill up the rest of the time with some simple games or crafts.

About the Author

Here are some more ideas for your child's birthday party. For a fun craft that works both to entertain the kids at the party and give them a favor to take home try these animal party favors. http://www.kinderinfo.com/crafts/animal-party-favors.htm It doesn't always have to be cake - make these simple birthday treats with the kids instead. http://www.kinderinfo.com/articles/simple-kids-birthday-treats.htm