Choosing a Theme for Your Child's Birthday Party

Yay! It's time to plan another birthday. No, seriously, I mean it...Yay! What fun!!! Planning a child’s birthday party doesn’t have to be stressful. Every child loves their birthday...next to Christmas, it's the “most bestest “ time of the year, as my little one used to say. Their excitement begins building oh, about 7 months before the party, that is, if they can hold out that long from planning the next big bash. But, my, my, the look on their little faces on party day is truly something to cherish.

We, as the official party planner and coordinator, however—well, let’s just say that we are slightly less excited. Am I right? I mean, we definitely want our child’s birthday party to be the perfect new beginning to the next year of his/her life, but geeze, there’s so much to do: choose a theme, order invitations, write them out, send them, plan activities, order the cake, buy the favors, get the party supplies, and on and on and on. How—how – how will we EVER get it all pulled together and make sure that it’s perfect for our little one? I’m here to tell you, RELAX! It doesn’t have to be “perfect.” It can actually be as fun for you as it is for your little tyke. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a successful birthday party if no one bursts into tears (including you) and everyone has fun.

The next several posts will be dedicated to planning your child’s birthday party. I will be covering everything from a-z for your party planning. I hope you will find this series refreshing and helpful, but most of all FUN!

So, first things first, choosing a theme. Now, depending on the age of your child, this could be simple…or not. As we all know, as children get older they get much more indecisive and cute cartoon characters are just not “cool.” It takes some creativity on our part, but putting some thought into it will definitely pay off in the end!

Pretty much anything can become the theme of your party. What does your child like? What does s/he want to be when s/he grows up? What’s his or her favorite activity? Favorite TV show or character? Favorite Game? Even a favorite color can be a party theme… and make it very simple. What about a purple people party? Or, will it be a glamour make-over party, a skateboarder’s party, a “down on the farm” party? How about a Rock Band party or a Wow Wow Wubbzy party? Candyland? What about a sweets buffet? Make a list, discuss it with your child, and then use your imagination. Don’t stress—and please, please just HAVE FUN!

To help you in your search for party favors, here's one of my favorite Etsy shops.