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It's My Party and I'll Cry if I Want To

Tips for a Tear-Free Toddler Fete

By Sharon Waldrop

For activities, Jennifer has found that bubbles and sidewalk chalk are big hits. She also finds setting toys out for free play a good idea, as well as providing plenty of balls for the toddlers to play with.

Rebecca Burgess of Birthday Express suggests themed food for perfect parties. Try speedy sandwiches for a Hot Wheels party; Pokeman Pizza and Mt. Moon Milkshakes for a Pokemon party; Magic Wand Cookies for a Cinderella party; and Jungle Juice, Swamp Juice and Buggy Kool-Aid for a Bug's Life party.

Be sure that any foods served are toddler-friendly. Beware of choking hazards on the table and in the goody bags. Burgess recommends beanbags, stickers and squeeze toys for party favors. Juice boxes and crackers are perennial favorites, as well.

Burgess recommends the following:

• Have more activities than you plan to use prepared in advance. Activities often take less time than planned.
• Pin the tail on the donkey, relay games, sack races, piñatas and treasure hunts are good activities to consider. If you plan a treasure hunt, make sure the "treasures" will not fit in the mouth of a curious toddler.
• Keep the party moving along so children will be too busy to get bored.
• Consider hiring a babysitter or having an older sibling on hand to help out at the party. Prep each person on his or her individual area before the party begins.

Overall, the experts agree that a simple, short party with a theme and activity agenda geared towards toddlers is a terrific option. Take your cues from your toddler to plan the party that is best for you and your family.