CHILD BIRTHDAY PARTY

Make Invitation Card:
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1) The invitation card should mention clearly the name of the person whose birthday is being celebrated and which birthday is it. It is okay to mention the age if it is a kid.
2) The venue, date and time should be clear and for those who do not know the address of the venue, giving directions at the back of the card should be helpful.
3) Choose a bright color like pink, blue, yellow or light green as the background since it reflects the joyful mood of the party.
4) You can get cards on which a message has already been written or go in for personalized cards. You can easily get these in departmental stores or the Internet.
5) Give your contact details such as your address, phone number and email id. It will be helpful for those who want to contact you in case of any doubts.
6) Mention the theme and dress code if you are having one. Also state whether it is a lunch or dinner party. Also mention whether parents can accompany or not.


Select a theme
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Having a theme for the birthday party has become the order of the day. Parents can select a theme for younger children, while older children normally select their own themes. When zeroing down on the theme for the party, make sure it would be workable for a home-based birthday party. For instance, a jungle theme may be more fun if the party were outdoors. Of course, with a little creativity and imagination you can recreate any theme at your home too.


Plan the menu
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Whether you want to get the food catered or make it yourself, plan the menu in advance and organize groceries and party supplies ahead of time. Do have a kid friendly menu as children sometime tend to be fussy with food. Try to offer fun, healthy and balanced snacks that even grown-ups can enjoy. You can consider snacks like cheese and crackers, fruit and veggie skewers, mini sandwiches, etc. Serving the food and snacks on attractive and colorful paper plates along with decorative napkins (in line with your party theme) is a fun idea.

Menu 1
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Cucumber & Green Chutney (mild) Sandwiches
Chips
Juice Boxes
Kaju Katli (kids love this - they call it "Indian Diamonds")

Menu 2
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Idli or Mini Idlis with Mild Green Chutney (kids will love this portable snack)
Mini Samosas
Bugles or Doritos
Strawberry or Banana Milk Shake (don't make it too thick in consistency)
Tiny Gulab Jamun

Menu 3
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Chole Bhature
Chips
Cake
Ice-cream

Organize furniture and food
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The main advantage of a home-based birthday party is the informal setting which makes your guests feel comfortable and at home. Don't try to overcrowd the area with too many chairs and tables. Instead, let there be more open space for kids to run around, play and have fun. Keep the food platters away from the play area.


Games and activities
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When you have a home-based birthday party it becomes your responsibility to also entertain the kids. Make out a list of possible game ideas and activities in advance and get the required material to conduct these activities. Try and keep the activities short to sustain the interest of the children. If you have children from varying age groups you can divide them into different groups. Come up with age-appropriate activities and games for each age group. You may also consider inviting a costumed character, a clown or a magician to entertain the children. Be sure to childproof your home by keeping away sharp objects or anything that might be hazardous.

Decorate your home
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Don't compromise on the decoration for the birthday just because you are having it at home. Use a lot of color and get creative with balloons, posters, crepe paper, banners, etc.