Most parents love their children with a deep and abiding passion. It is natural for us to want our children to be happy and healthy. We want them to have everything they need and almost everything they want. But sometimes giving a small child everything they want can be detrimental. Take birthday parties, for example. Huge, extravagant birthday parties are a growing modern trend (Thanks, Pinterest!) Here are five tips for planning that simple party, and doing it on a budget as well.
1. Buy birthday supplies in bulk at Dollar Tree.
You’ll be surprised at how many fun, little birthday party trinkets you can find at a Dollar Tree. Buying cups, plates and napkins there can save you lots of money. If you’re going to have balloons at the party, rent a helium tank and fill your own. The balloons can be both entertainment and decor. Here’s what we found for my daughter’s 7th birthday party at Dollar Tree. Follow my Instagram account while you are here! Watch my YouTube video about birthday decorations at Dollar Tree.
2. Make the Food Yourself
Catered food is expensive. Even if you’re not a chef, it’s easy to make your own food for a child’s party. Start with a yellow cake mix. Turn it into cupcakes and decorate them with pre-made frosting. Add a few bowls of chips or party mix, a platter of baby veggies and dip, and a bowl of punch. That’s really all you need to keep kids happy. Just remember to beware of any allergies before handing out food.
3. Make Your Own Amusement Park
If you’ve got access to a yard, you can make your own water park. Set up wading pools and a slip-and-slide. Put a pile of squirt guns next to the faucet. The kids will quickly get the idea and have a blast. Don’t want to mess with water? Set up a simple obstacle course or a treasure hunt. Or, if it’s too cold to be outside, rent videos and video games. Make sure the kids take turns and add some interest by creating prizes for the highest scores.
4. Use Free (or Cheap) Public Entertainment
Plan your party at a public park or swimming pool. At the park, you can set up games of horseshoes
Related: Should You Have Your Child’s Birthday Party Away or At Home? + Birthday Theme Ideas
5. Stick to the Basics
Birthday parties are more about creating memorable moments in your childrens’ lives rather than trying to be over the top to impress people. What kids really want from a birthday party is some games, sugary food and a fun time. Anything other than that is extra, and may even lead to cranky, burned-out kids.
Do you have any tips for hosting a birthday party on a budget?
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