The first birthday party

Your baby is one year old and now you are officially part of the kid’s party circuit. At this age birthday parties are more important to the parent – your baby doesn’t even know what the fuss is all about!

Don’t be too ambitious when you plan the party. Here are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that it is a success:

• Don’t invite too many people. It is far too daunting for a baby and he may end up clinging to you all the time.
• Time it right – schedule the party for a time when your baby is well rested and fed.
• Put away all breakable and fragile items – with other children around, there is no way that you will be able to supervise them all the time.
• Get help. You also need time to interact with the guests and to make sure that the guest of honour has a good time. With so much going on, you will need someone who can run around serving guests and clearing away.
• Serve wholesome snacks that are safe for young children – don’t risk a child choking on nuts or popcorn.
• Don’t bother inviting a clown or magician – they may frighten your baby or his guests.
• Keep it brief – parties are exhausting for a baby (and you!). An hour will do.
• Provide a variety of toys and if you can, have more than one of each kind to avoid competition.
• A ball pond can be hired. It is always a hit with babies this age.
• Put drop sheets out – parties are messy affairs!