Baby’s First Birthday

So your baby is getting ready to turn one – congradulations!   Taking time to celebrate his or her first year of life is a great opportunity for you to spend time with loved ones and make memories that will last a lifetime.  The party planning process can be tiring, from finding the right location to the perfect baby birthday favors, but it doesn’t have to be.  By starting the process early, you will be able to enjoy this special time with your little one.

 

Planning the Party

Choose a theme and party time that is best for your baby.  Try not to interrupt usual naptimes or you will end up with a cranky child.  It’s best set concrete start and end times for the party; everyone will understand if you say it’s time for your child to take a nap!  Judge the best time by your child’s routine.

 

Find a location that will make your child feel comfortable .  At this young age, try to find a venue with which the child is familiar.  He or she may be uncomfortable with new surroundings and new people.  You may not want to plan the party at your home, as it will add “cleaning your house” to your already full to-do list.

 

Try to choose a simple theme that is appropriate to your child’s taste .  You do not need to go overboard with decorations, remember this party is mostly for adults.  Once the theme is selected, send out invitations.  Try to get invitations to your guests two to three weeks before the party. 

When planning the menu, look for foods that will satisfy both your child and adults.  Fruits and vegetables, small hamburgers and Other items your child likes to eat mean you won’t have to make two meals – one for the adults and one for your baby.  Try a test run of the cake with your little one before the party.  Usually children will react well to foods they’veexperienced before, so consider making applesauce, carrot or pumpkin cake. 

 

Shopping for 1st birthday favors can be a lot of fun!  Just like the party theme and decorations, the birthday party favors are mostly for adults.  Have fun brainstorming your birthday favor ideas.  They can be as unique as personalized candy or something small like a photo frame with a picture of your child.

 

On the Day of the Party

Ask a family member to snap photos or make a video of the party.  This way you can keep your focus on your little one.  With all the guests, your child may need some extra attention from Mom or Dad.  Try to have the family member get photos of your baby with a number of different guests.  The photos will be great keepsakes for you and your loved ones. 

 

Put another family member or friend in charge of the gift table.  Give that person paper and pen to record who gave each gift so you can write the appropriate thank you letters later. 

 

Most important of all, maintain a fun and light atmosphere.  Your child will be able to pick up on any stress or anxiety you feel, so stay calm and have a good time.  No matter what happens, your family will have fun celebrating your little one’s life.  Take this time to relax – your child will grow up quickly, so cherish this time you have when he or she is still a baby .

July 1, 2010 | Filed Under Childcare Jobs | Daycare Jobs, In Home Child Day Care 

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