How To Plan For A Kids Birthday Party (STRESS FREE)

If your kid's birthday is coming up soon and you're starting to panic about how to make it the best day ever - don't worry, we're here to help!

Here are our top tips on how to plan for a kid's birthday party that will have them and all their friends smiling from ear to ear.

Give Yourself Seven Weeks to Prepare

What's that saying? "Failing to plan is planning to fail?" When it comes to throwing a birthday party, that definitely rings true. 

To avoid the stress of scrambling to get everything together at the last minute, start planning seven weeks out from the date of the party.

This will give you plenty of time to track down any supplies you need, confirm any bookings or reservations, and send out invitations so that everyone can save the date.

Create a Budget and Stick to It

One of the first things you'll need to do when planning a birthday party is to create a budget. How much are you willing to spend on this event?

Once you have a number in mind, start itemizing all of the potential expenses associated with throwing a party: food, decorations, activities, entertainment, invitations, party favors, etc.

Once you have a rough estimate of the total cost, start looking for ways to trim the fat. There are plenty of ways to save money on a birthday party without sacrificing quality or fun.

For example, instead of hiring a professional entertainer, see if one of your friends or family members would be willing to dress up as their child's favorite character and lead some games.

You can also do things like making your own decorations or favors, or take advantage of coupons and discounts when buying supplies.

The most important thing is to be mindful of your spending and stick to the budget you've set.

Related: 78 Ways To Make Your Child's Birthday Extra Special

Choose a Theme

Once you have a budget in mind, the next step is to choose a theme for the party.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to birthday party themes, so sit down with your child and ask them what they would most enjoy.

Do they want a princess-themed party? A superhero adventure? A trip to the beach? Once you've settled on a theme, the rest of the planning process will be much easier.

Choose Party Activities That Your Child Will Love

This is an important one - choose party activities that your child will enjoy.

Remember, this day is all about them so you want to make sure they have a blast.

Some great birthday party ideas include things like:

• - scavenger hunts
• - treasure hunts
• - Piñata time!
• - water balloon games
• - arts and crafts projects
• - building forts out of blankets and pillows
• - make your own pizzas or cupcakes

Of course, the activities you choose will depend on the age of the birthday child and their interests.

But as long as you keep them involved in the planning process and involve activities that they love, you're sure to throw a party they'll never forget.

Determine the Guest List & Send Invitations

Determining the guest list early on is important for two reasons:

1. it will help you plan for how much food and supplies you'll need, and

2. it will give you an idea of how many people you'll need to accommodate when choosing a venue.

Once you have the guest list finalised, it's time to send out invitations!

There are tons of great ways to do this these days, from e-vites to Facebook events.

You can also get creative and make your own invitations - just be sure to include all of the essential information like the date, time, location, and RSVP instructions.

Confirm Any Bookings or Reservations For Venues

If you're planning on having the party at a specific location (like a park, community centre, or rental space), be sure to confirm any bookings or reservations well in advance.

You don't want to wait until the last minute only to find out that the venue you wanted is already booked solid.

Plan the Menu & Shop for Supplies

The menu will largely depend on the theme of the party, but there are some standard items that should be included no matter what.

Be sure to have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand, as well as enough cake or cupcakes for all of the guests (plus a few extras, just in case).

If you're planning on doing any crafts or activities, make sure you have all of the supplies you need ahead of time.

Order food

If you are having food professionally prepared, it is important to place your order in advance. This will ensure that the food is fresh and there is enough for everyone.

Purchase (or Make) Decor & Party Favors

A week or so before the party, it's time to start decorating.

Again, the decorations you'll need will depend on the theme of the party. But some general things to keep in mind are streamers, balloons, banners, and tablecloths.

If you're feeling extra creative, you can make your own decorations or favors. This is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to the party.

Choose & Gather Materials for Games

You have the venue, have worked out the theme and the decorations are up, now it is time to focus on the games.

Choose age-appropriate games that will be enjoyed by all of the guests.

Some great ideas include musical chairs, freeze dance, and Simon Says.

If you need help coming up with game ideas, there are plenty of resources available online.

Just be sure to have all of the materials you need on hand before the party starts.

Prepare for the Big Day!

A few days before the party, it's time to start getting things ready. Bake any cakes or cupcakes, prepare any food that can be made ahead of time, and charge up any electronics you'll be using (cameras, speakers, etc.).

Create a Checklist for the Day Of

The day before the big day, create a checklist of everything you need to do in order to make sure the party goes off without a hitch.

This should include things like setting up the decorations, putting out the food and setting up any games or activities.

By taking some time to plan ahead, you can ensure that both you and the birthday child have a great time on their special day!