A party plan for Baby's first celebration
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First birthdays are special! Believe it or not, this will be the easiest celebration of all your child's future birthday parties. Here are some tips from Mary Ann Ross and Kimberly Lainson from The Party Works to help make your child's first birthday a smash!
Let's party, baby!
The best time for a birthday party is about one hour after your child's nap. Limit the number on your guest list if this is not a family party. The commotion of a lot of children and adults can cause the one-year old to become cranky.
In the corner of the party room, lay a blanket down on the floor and add a large selection of soft toys for all the toddlers to play with -- remembering that for one, two and even three-year olds, everything starts with the word "mine" and they believe it is truly theirs.
Party theme
When your child is watching television or has a favorite toy, you'll be able to tell which character(s) they most especially enjoy. Many of these popular characters have matching party supplies and cake decorations that can be purchased.
If your child does not show an interest in any theme, select one that matches their bedroom or one that you enjoy. If the birthday is close to the November/December, ask guests to bring an ornament for baby's first holiday/Christmas tree -- and becomes a special keepsake to give the child when she/he becomes an adult.
Invitations
Make your own or purchase ready-made invitations that match your theme - add a photo of the birthday baby when he/she was born. Your guests will enjoy the personal touch!
Decorations
Balloons and streamers add instant festivity to any celebration. Centerpieces that are flat-packed and assembled for the party make wonderful reminders in scrapbooks or tacked to the child's bedroom wall when the party is over.
Food
Finger foods are best for toddlers. For older toddlers and adults, pizza is a grand choice! You can buy it frozen or have it delivered. This saves lots of time so you don't have to stress yourself with preparing food.
Cake
Provide two cakes -- one cake "just" for the birthday baby to eat all by herself or himself and have your camera ready! The other cake is for the guests and can be decorated to match the party theme.
Cautions
If you use balloons, ensure that any popped balloons are not left on the floor, chairs or table -- children can choke on them. Toys and party favors should be at least the size of an adult fist. Some toddlers/children are allergic to peanut butter, dairy products, etc. so check with parents before serving any foods.
Thank you notes
Snap a photo of your child with each gift that is opened and include it with your thank you note. This is a very appreciated gesture, especially for guests who could not attend the party. As the birthday baby opens up a gift, snap a photo of the baby and the person who gave the gift.
