Big Kid Birthday?

Some of our kids aren't really babies anymore, and as they transition past babyhood and toddlerhood and into the pre-school and elementary years, birthday parties become a little less about parents celebrating survival of a year (or another year) of parenthood, and a little more about our not-so-babies! So, how can we do this without creating a debacle we never want to try again? Here are a few tips from seasoned moms:

• Less. Just- less. I spent more than I needed to on things that didn't matter, and that the kids didn't notice. (Nancy, mom of a 5 year old)
• When you are expecting 20 people and you go to order food, do not order enough for 50 people! (Cathy, mom of 2)

Ever is 3! What a big girl!

• Make sure to plan for unscheduled play time. Don't have everything scheduled out. Make sure you allow/expect time for the kids to just play and be kids because in the end, that is what they will do anyway. (Janet, mom of a 15 year old and a 5 year old)
• Pick a place that does everything for you (food, goodie bags, etc.) It costs about the same with no clean up. (Nina, mom of 2)

These pennant banners are so cute and so popular!

• When planning a party pick a theme and colors that will coordinate. It is much easier to plan around the party and get ideas on Pinterest. If you can, get a friend or hire a photographer to take pics for you so you don't have to stress about pictures. If you are going to make things yourself, do it little by little because you don't want to be stressing the day before the party with party preparations. (Vanessa, mom of 2)
• Do themed gifts or ask party-goers to donate to a child's favorite charitable cause. The kids glow knowing they've done something for someone else. Decorate a small space, so it looks very "done up" in pictures,and take pictures in the decorated spot. This saves a lot of headache! If you're buying table cloths, use plain colors so they can be reused. Plain colored paper products, too. If you don't want the trouble of serving a meal, schedule your party right after a meal time. (Nickie, mom of twin 5 year olds)

Ever's first big girl party

• If you are going to do a "loot" or "goodie" bag, keep it simple. A little book is nice. (Tabitha, mom of a five year old)
• It's tempting to invite more, but to avoid meltdowns, limit the number of friends to the child's age. (Mary, mom of 4)

Don't forget to check our Pinterest board for birthday ideas, too!