Kids Backyard Birthday Party on a Budget

by Joey W.
(Shelbyville, Tennessee)

Have a backyard birthday party! On a budget? Birthday parties do not need to be elaborate productions, or expensive, or highly planned events for kids to have fun. Instead, what kids want is a time to play and express creativity. That's why a good old fashioned backyard birthday party can often be the most memorable birthday party of all.

The economy is making it tough on everyone. But that doesn't mean you have to cancel, or even scale back your child's birthday party. Make it one he or she will remember by following these simple ideas for his or her favorite party of all.

First, you need a place to hold the party big enough for games. Games that kids love most involve running, twisting and noise! One good game is "hotbox." A simple ball will do, with which two kids throw the ball back and forth while a third kid runs between them, trying to reach the base, upon

which each thrower is standing. The runner tries not to get tagged by one of the kids holding the ball. It’s reminiscent of a first and second baseman in the game of baseball trying to get the runner out.

Another good game involves a simple water hose. This means of course that kids will be wet, but that can be managed with a place for them to dry off outside, and rules that keep kids out of the house expect to use the bathroom.

Let the kids use the water hose to play games, such as water cannon. Alternatively buy a simple water toy that attaches to the water hose and watch as they are enthralled for hours.

Lastly, you must provide structure for the party. Commit one hour to letting the kids run and play, letting them expend energy so they build up an appetite and are more apt to sit still. Let them eat cake! After cake, make sure they have fun opening presents, and then give them about an hour to play again.

This is the best time to remind parents to come get their children, if they have not already been informed of the pick-up time. Keeping the party short, under three hours is best, as they can be sent home about the time they get tired and cranky.

Birthday parties don't have to be a nightmare for parents. They can be fun for both child and parent, as long as you keep it simple, give them activities to which they can bring their own creativity, and provide a time-structured event. Have fun and stay dry!

Categories: Kids, Birthday Party Ideas