My LO is turning one on Saturday. I have no idea what to do. I didn’t plan on anything other than a cake, a hat, balloon and a photograph (given he is not in anyway yet interested in birthdays) but people keep asking me what I have planned and look so disapproving when I say “not much”. What do you think? Do you think I’m being a bit lazy not having a party? ~Anon
Parties are an individual choice. You should do what feels right to you and try (yeah right) to ignore the disapproving views of others. Some people choose to have a large celebration claiming it is more for them to celebrate their child’s birth than really for the child in question. It is also the case that a first birthday is celebrated by adults rather than children. It is a day for all the extended family to come and OOH and AHH over your precious little bod.
That being said, there are a few ways to make the day special, less stressful for you and a fitting celebration for someone who has no clue what is going on!
- If you have the space, invite anyone who has been involved in your child’s first year. Using an emailed invitation is fine.
- Invite family (you can ask them to each bring a plate of treats to share).
- Plan the time around your child’s napping schedule and NOT what suits anyone else! A grumpy birthday boy is no fun for anyone!
- Make the cake a big deal. You will be pleased when you look back on the photos in years to come.
- Decorations are not a big deal: a few colourful napkins, plates and balloons will set the scene nicely. If you like you can make a memory wall by sticking a few great pics up from his first year for guest to enjoy.
- Set up nappy change area if other guests have babies attending, it is always appreciated.
- If you have the equipment create a slideshow of photos of your child and family on your computer and leave is running- you can even link it up onto the telly.
- If other children are attending, put out tubs of toys around the space and let them help themselves.
- Make a drinks station in the kitchen and tell the adults they need to serve themselves if they want a drink.
- Play some childish music to help set the atmosphere.
- Enlist the help of a close friend or family member at the beginning of the party to help clear away any rubbish from present opening, and food wrappers/paper plates. This will save time at the end of the party when you are tired and baby has had enough!
- To signal the end of the party and to prevent any guests hanging around indefinitely (there are always a few), switch off the music and start clearing away. Your guests will either leave or help you clear-either way is a good result for you.
Good Luck, and remember; your child’s first birthday is special for you. Celebrate it in a way that makes you happy and in a way that you will treasure..and don’t think about what others think you should do!
I am a preschool and primary school teacher and mum to 3 children. I have been involved in education since 1997 and have trained in a variety of educational specialist areas. It is with this expertise that I write articles to help parents and educators provide quality learning experiences for the children in their care.
