Show-Stopping Birthday Ideas for Kids
When we were young, parties were simple – pin the tail on the donkey, cake and ice cream, presents. Today, kids expect more and, as parents, we want to make them happy! There are limitless resources and ideas online. We’ve put together a few guidelines and ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

How many guests?
The eternal conundrum, it’s difficult for many parents to decide. For younger kids, it is best to stick as close to the rule of thumb as possible: one guest for each year of your child’s life. Once your child is older, ask him or her whom they’d like to invite. When the number becomes too large, some parents throw one party for each group of kids: school class, teams and clubs.

Get Help!
Many of us try but aren’t able to stick to a small party rule. If not, it’s ok! Just make sure you have enough adults to assist with party activities. For younger kids, it’s not usually an issue as many parents will stay at the party with their child. Once your children are older, parents will drop off kids so plan the event carefully so that it runs smoothly.

Picking a Theme
Today’s parties are often themed. Popular themes may change over time. For solid theme ideas, consider what your child enjoys and then research possible decorations, activities and food that fit within that theme. Today’s popular kids parties include themes built around pirates, camping, glamour sleepovers and tea parties.

Add A Show-Stopping Element
Many parties today are the kind we used to dream about when we were young. It’s become commonplace to bring in celebrity look-a-likes, trains, petting zoos and professional entertainment. Some may even decide to host their party at a spa!

To make your pirate party stand out, consider adding one or more of these show stopping elements: trained parrots with a handler, celebrity impersonator like Johnny Depp/Captain Jack Sparrow and a treasure hunt filled with real-life treasures ranging from cash to sporting event tickets.

For a glamorous girls’ sleepover, begin your evening by picking up guests in a limosine. Once guests arrive, be sure to have a red carpet laid out at your entrance. Consider hiring a celebrity impersonator like Hillary Duff or one of the Cheetah Girls. Be sure to serve fun finger foods on silver platters and, when it’s time to wind down, have a movie premiere of an old favorite or a new movie.