One of the biggest mistakes that parents can make when planning a birthday party for their children is organising a celebration that is too large or lavish. They go overboard and spend too much time and money on decorations, food, and gifts. To many it is understandable. Birthday parties have become such a normal part of our culture that, even as adults, we can often take them for granted. For some children, a party may be the only celebration they receive each year, so it’s important to focus on enjoying your child’s birthday without the fanfare.
So, instead of throwing them a huge party, why don’t you plan a low-key day? While it can still be fun and memorable, it will also save you a big chunk of money at the same time.
Here are some fun ideas to consider.
- Colouring and Drawing – It is no surprise that kids can be expensive, but you don’t have to spend a lot to celebrate their birthdays. If you’re on a tight budget, then consider hosting a colouring and drawing party, where you can hand out fun colouring pages to invited guests. There are many templates online that you can print off in time for the party, and another bonus of this is that most designs are free! How good is that?
- Photo Booth – If you decide to have a small backyard or house party for your child, why don’t you increase their level of excitement by hiring a photo booth for the occasion? Everyone loves to have their photo taken, and when it is at an event like a birthday, it makes the time more memorable. They are perfect for all ages, and they can add an interactive party favour that can add a new element to the traditional cake and presents.
- Movie Night – It’s your child’s birthday, and you’re feeling creative. Instead of hosting a big birthday party, you opt to celebrate with a low-key movie party in your front room. To cut costs, you may decide to invite the birthday girl or boy’s closest friends rather than extending the guest list to their entire school. By keeping it simple, your child and their friends have a great time.
- Museum Visit – Kids are fascinated by art, and visiting a museum can be a great opportunity to spend quality time together. Plus, most museums provide activities and crafts to help you create long-lasting memories. Just be sure to check that they offer this type of package ahead of time, so your child won’t be disappointed on their visit.
- Escape Room – Forget the standard birthday party. Escape rooms are the new craze for these occasions. And they’re a great way to spend an afternoon of fun with your friends or family. They come in many different themes, so find one best suited to your child, book it, and watch their imaginations come to life as they try and escape the room in the fastest time.
- Art Studio – Birthdays are meant to be celebrated, but they are expensive and time-consuming to plan. Instead, have your child and their friends create art together at the art studio. The art studio is great for birthdays, group activities, school events, and fundraisers. If anything, it is something different and you will be surprised to find just how much your child will enjoy this time.
Having a party doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. Instead of planning a blowout bash, try these fun alternative birthday party ideas. Remember, birthdays are about celebrating and being with your kid, not about impressing your friends and family.
Whether or not you have children, you probably need to come down off your high horse and admit that a birthday party for your kid isn’t necessary. In today’s world, play dates, birthday sleepovers, and family outings are the norm. A birthday party is just what your child wants, not what everyone else expects. There’s nothing wrong with honouring your child’s special day in any of these ways, especially if it is what they want. So, whatever you do, have fun and celebrate your child in the way they deserve to be celebrated.
