THE ULTIMATE KID'S BIRTHDAY PARTY CHECKLIST

It’s the most exciting time of the year! For your kid that is. For you it might be a little more stressful than exciting. But lists can almost solve any form of stress so here goes!

Go back to planning the basics first

  • Set the date: Now sit and think about holidays, sporting events and clashing parties.
  • Think theme: Your kid will probably help you here. Maybe a favourite TV show or superhero?
  • Venue or home: Maybe your house will do the trick, or a play area nearby.
  • Time: This will guide you on food. Will there just be party packs or lunch too?

Stationary

  • List RSVPs:List all the names you plan on inviting. Will it be a family gathering or school friends too?
  • Invitations: Whatever platform you decide to use, make sure you include all the specifics – theme, start and end times etc. Be sure to ask if there are any dietary concerns.
  • Thank you notes: Make a note of who brought what gift so you can send personalised thank you notes to all the guests afterwards. 

Decorations

  • Balloons: Save time and blow them up a few hours beforehand.
  • Banners: A big “Happy Birthday” banner always creates a great atmosphere.
  • Party Blowers: If you have the nerve to listen to them! Kids love them.
  • Centerpieces: This could be the gifts, a cake or maybe something theme related.
  • Party Hats: There’s something about putting a party hat that brings the occasion to life!
  • Party Sign: Make it known that the party is happening at your house with a cardboard sign with balloons attached to it!
  • Tableware: Cups and plates can easily get lost or dirty. Make sure you have enough!
  • Cutlery: Knives, spoons, forks.

Food

Make sure you’ve checked if there are any special dietary requirements. The food could differ depending on preferences, but here are some essentials for any party:

  • Snacks: A party isn’t a party without snacks! Chips, dips, cookies, macaroons to mention a few.
  • Party food: Savoury pastries, mini-sliders, mini-pizzas & quiches, hot chips, chicken strips, hot dogs, brownies, muffins, ice cream, waffles, pancakes.
  • The cake: Go on, make one yourself! Or ok, ordering is fine too.
  • Ice: Either buy a bag or make your own ahead of time.
  • Drinks: Variety is good! From fizzy drinks to juices, but always have water, coffee and tea available too.

Games & activities

  • Have a speaker to play music.
  • Games: What about a three-legged racing, pinning the donkey’s tail or even a teasure hunt. Get creative.
  • Game Prizes: Candy and cheap toys.

Other things you may need

  • Tables & chairs: If needed, ask guests to bring some as well.
  • Camera and video taking device.
  • Candles & matches: For the cake.
  • Batteries: For those toys that need
  • Cake platter & knife.
  • Serving plates.
  • Ice bucket.

Party bags and fillers

  • Sweets and chips: Suckers, chocolate bars, chips and candy.

Cheap bag fillers: There are many stores that have cute toys but are not overly pricey. Some examples are small cars, stickers, bubbles, hair clips, bouncy balls, small puzzles, card games, plastic animals etc.

 

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