When you plan a birthday party, you probably think about the cake, what games to play, and what you may want to give out as favors. However, there is something else that you have to think about as well, and without giving it some thought, things could be chaos. You have to remember the toddlers are very active, but also need naps and a lot of supervision. You should make sure you plan toddler birthday parties accordingly. Without this type of planning, what would turn out to be a great party can turn out to be a disaster.
Timing is everything when planning toddler birthday parties. Having a party at two in the afternoon could mean disaster. This is prime nap time, even for those that are down to just one nap a day. You should pick a different time. Four might be okay, as many naps are over by that time. You could also do something around lunch time, but remember that is when these kids tend to get cranky. You may want to call a few of the parents and ask what they think is a good time of day for their child. That can help you pick a good time for almost everyone.
Toddler birthday parties are touchy when it comes to sweets as well. You may be use to slicing up cake and ice cream for adults at gatherings, but how much sugar do you really want to give a room full of toddlers? You can still have the cake and ice cream if you wish, but keeps the servings very small. Offer up something else first, so that the kids will not be starving when you get out the cake. Fruit salad is always a great idea, and most parents will approve. If you can serve a small meal first that can help as well. Stay away from peanuts, as there are many kids out there with an allergy to those these days.
Keep your favors safe and easy. You may get a kick out of giving out favors that are noisy but remember the parents may return the favor one day. Choose toddler birthday party toys that are fun but quiet and non-toxic. If you find something along the theme of your party, that is great, but there are other generic things out there that most parents will like and the kids will love. There are going to be plenty of toddler birthday parties in your future, so be kind and those that invite you in the future will remember to return the favor, so to speak.
Always, always have something for the kids to do at toddler birthday parties. This means having structured games and events to keep them busy and engaged. If you have a lull in the party, you may lose them forever. Nothing says trouble like a toddler with nothing to do and a whole new house or area to explore. They don't mean to get into trouble by finding your glass egg collection, they just want to see if they bounce. If you keep the party to a good time limit and have plenty for them to do, everyone will have fun and your house will be in once piece once the party is nothing but a sweet memory.
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