Child Party Planning Tips

Here are some practical child party planning tips to help you plan the perfect party and make the most of your kid's special day.

Before we get started, make sure to take a look at birthday party checklist to keep you on track.

Give yourself some time to plan all the details of your party. As you decide on the best day and time for the celebration, consider how much time you will need to set up the decorations, props, food, and games. If you think you'll need the morning for preparation, plan your party for the afternoon. Do as much preparation as possible before the day of the party.

Involve your child in as much of the kid party planning and preparation as possible.

He or she will be delighted to help plan the theme, guest list, menu, games, and so on. You child can make invitations, set up activities and decorations, and prepare simple menu items.

I'm a big fan of birthday party themes. I have put together a collection of kids' classic party themes and character birthday themes. You'll find some unique ideas for having an absolute best birthday party that you could have for your child.

If your guests are young kids, two hours should be plenty of time for the party. If your party guests are older children, you might allow three hours for the party and plan to include games and activities that take more time. In any case, let the guests' parents know the time your party will end, so they can pick up the party-goers.

This will help you make child party planning easier. List what your guests will be doing from the time they arrive until the time they leave.

Include introductory activities for guests who are early and a plan for those who are late. Make sure that your first activity doesn't depend on all the guests being there.

Also, be sure to schedule some time for free play. Provide coloring pages, balls, paper, crayons, and other items for children to use if they finish eating early or if they are waiting for others to complete an activity.

Rain or shine, the party will go on! If you're planning an outdoor party, have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Have additional games and activities available "just in case." Relays, dance music, balloon volleyball, and storytelling are good backups because they require little preparation and they're always a hit.

Have a family member, an older child, or a friend assist you with the party. You will need the extra hands to help children with games. He or she will also free you to do other things, such as restocking food and drinks, or preparing for the next game. Ask your helper to take photos and/or videos of party highlights.

Plan a safe, comfortable place for your party. Childproof the area by placing breakables and valuables in another room. Special tables, flooring, and furniture can be covered with decorative sheets or plastic.

If you have pets, place them in a comfortable area away from the party. You might have guests who are not comfortable around animals. Also be aware of children who may be allergic to dogs and/or cats.

Be sure your house or apartment numbers are visible from the street. Balloons or cardboard signs placed near your driveway or street entrance will help guests in locating the party.

Remember that your schedule is only a guide. If a game is going extremely well, let children continue playing. If an activity doesn't seem to be working, move on to something else. Keep in mind that children will be excited and mishaps may occur. Even if the party does not go exactly as planned, keep your sense of humor - and most of all, have fun!

Take lots of photos and videos! You and your child will want to remember this special celebration. Polaroid or digital cameras are fun to take and can be used during party for various crafts. Regular film can be developed after the party and sent to party-goers in thank you notes. And any videos taken during the party can be shown to partygoers while they are waiting to be picked up.

Sit down with your child a week or two after the party to write thank-you notes. For a special treat, include a photo from the party as a keepsake.

Helpful Child Party Planning Tips