by Santana Moores

Created on: September 09, 2008   Last Updated: May 24, 2012

The day your child turns one is a very special day. Many can remember looking at the clock and saying "A year ago to the minute they were at the hospital." and "This time a year ago they were pushing her out."

You were so excited that your little baby girl was turning one. You wanted her day to be one that she would remember, not like any one year old would or even could. You think most parents 'over do it' when it comes to the party plans, You may be one of them. You wanted all the guest to show, you wanted to give her the best present ever, the cake had to be perfect, tons of pictures taken, the whole nine yards.

All you need to remember is that as long as she spends the day with her family she'll have the best day ever. But not everyone is going to want it to be just the family, here is a few tips.

Your child is only one and will not remember this day, you have no need to go overboard. Keep it simple.

Invite family and close friends.

The cake can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. Go to the local grocery store and buy a pre-made cake and get "Happy First Birthday" written on it.

The dollar store should be your best friend when buying party supplies. Normally they will have the complete set of cups, plates and napkins. Pick out the cutest sets there. Then all you need are matching table cover and cutlery and you're set.

You should also be able to purchase your decorations there too. Decorations should be kept to a minimum. A few balloons and a "Happy Birthday" sign; depending on the age of the other children invited, you may want to have one balloon of each child.

Loot bag treats can also be bought at the dollar store. Most carry different toys in packs of four, they are actual called party favors. A juice box, bubbles, pack of stickers, cheese and crackers something along these lines are perfect for the treat bag.

Food is alway an issue. What to serve to the guest. Plan your party around snack time: ham and cheese sandwiches, jello cups, rice crispies and chocolate chip cookies. Along with the cake, that a huge snack. You may be thinking the food suggested is not at all healthy, but it's a party, a special day that you can allow a 'bad' snack. If you don't want a snack time party, hot dogs and french fries or chicken nuggets and fries or even a pizza.

When it comes to games or activities, what one year old can obey directions well enough and long enough to play a game. Put on some kid music and let them dance or just play with the toys available.

It doesn't matter whether the party is small or big your child will have fun.

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