B-day Party for 4 Yo- Home or Out?

Hi Donnna-

We have had all of my children's birthdays at home. We rented a moonwalk for one and had pony rides for the other two. The bottom line is, kids this age love parties, it doesn't matter where it is or what the theme is. As long as you have something for the kids to do whether that is renting a moonwalk or just having crafts or games to play they'll have fun.

The real issue is whether or not you want to have the party at your home or somewhere else. If you're ok with the work it takes to get the house ready for the party, deal with the mess that's made during the party, and handle the clean up after the party then it will be fine. If it's worth the extra cost to you to have it somewhere else and avoid the hassle, then parties at Pump It Up or any of the My Gym type places are great too.

Also keep in mind that most parties these days are more extravagant than what we had as kids. As a result, having a "simple" party (pin the tail on the donkey, musical chairs, red light green light, etc) actually is unique for kids today and they love the games because they don't get to play them all the time like we did.

Good Luck,
K.

Since the theme to the party is speed racer. Maybe you can do something with cars and races in the house. Have some winners and give them little prizes. Really anything you do will be okay. Just remember to keep it simple hes only 4. Good Luck

Hi D.!

Okay, I don't want to sound like a lazy Mom but as far as the party thing goes, it really depends on how much work you want to do. I, personally would have it somewhere else opposed to the house because of the work, clean-up, coming up with activities, etc. As far as money goes, you'd be surprised at home much you end up spending all said and done with a party at home not to mention the "labor" involved.

We've done parties at Chuck E. Cheese, jumping places, gymnastics places, etc. If you have the party at a "non-meal time" then all you'd have to worry about is cake and ice cream/juice and goodie bags. You could use the "speed racer theme for paper products and tablecloths. The kids will have a blast anyway!

Just my opionion! We have done them at home as well and I always say to myself "I'll never do this again!" HA!! But that's just me. Everyone is different!

Good luck and let us know what happens!
M.

Hi D.,

I am dealing with the same predicament, my daughter turns 5 on the 24th! We have a swing set in the backyard that was just put up & I was thinking it would be perfect to have a party here. However, I wondered if this will keep them occupied enough? Then, do I have enough room for parents to sit, etc. And, will they show? That's my biggest concern. We're new to town so I am hoping these parents are better then her friends' parents from last years party. Anyway, to save money & because they're so young, we have opted for home. Party supplies are so inexpensive, you can get a great cake at any of the grocery stores for $40. If it's 40 degrees that day, parents will bring sweaters! And, like the other mom mentioned, I will be having the party @ 2pm, less cost for food! Hope everyone enjoys!!