Are you the kind of parent who freaks out when your child asks to have a party? Do you get exhausted just thinking about having to plan a birthday party that will out-do the party your child attended last month.
As grown-ups we tend to really care about appearances, but when it comes down to it, most children want to just have fun.
As a general rule, elaborate parties may often be boring for many children and their guests.
If you are throwing a party (it doesn't matter what kind of celebration it is), the party is for the child so why not let your child help.
This is a great opportunity to have some fun with your child and teach him/her what being social is all about.
Kids will grow up someday, and need to plan parties and events of their own, so it's never too late to show them the ropes.
Often times the adult is the host or hostess, but why not teach your child an invaluable lesson and allow them to assume that role.
Here are a few simple ideas that you and your child can consider to make their party awesome.
Let your child plan.
Your child knows better than you what kind of party would be the best, so parents should let their child lead the way.
Parents can be there to give suggestions and guidance, but overall, the child should have the final say.
Of course we can't let our kids go wild and get too extravagant, so gently steer them in a direction that suits your budget without making it seem as if you are the one in charge.
Let the child decorate.
Letting you child decorate is very important.
Kids see things in a different light than do adults.
It's going to be the invited guests that enjoy the festivities, so if your child wants to hand make decorations then you should help make that happen.
If your child wants a theme party, you should allow her to choose the decorations within reason of course.
Once your child has placed the decorations in the correct spots, don't move things around, even if you think it looks horrible.
Never second guess your child's artistic skills.
If she thinks it looks great, then odds are so will the other age-appropriate guests.
Let your child make the guest list.
You have to let your child make the guest list.
This can get tricky to say the least, but it is his party, and your child should be able to invite the guests that he wants.
You should not force your child to invite girls and/or boys, the neighbors or even relatives if he doesn't want to.
As adults, we know this is going to cause some feelings to be hurt, but you have to let your child deal with the consequences of his own decisions.
If he was invited to a party and did not reciprocate, then he may find that an invitation will not come to him the next time around.
That has to be his choice.
Show your child manners.
We always remind our children when we send them off to a party to tell the hostess or host thank you for inviting them upon leaving the party.
In order to show your child good manners, you should stand at the door with her and as each person leaves, tell them how much you enjoyed having them at your home.
This will hopefully show your own child how to end a party and to show your own gratitude for those that attended.
Letting your child plan, or at least have a major roll in party planning is an excellent way to teach your child how to be social.
It also helps them learn valuable lessons in grace and courtesy.
Overall, you will be helping your child move towards independence while learning the skills of entertaining.