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Most of us realize by now how commercialized Christmas has become. The "spirit of the season" seems to have gone right out the window, and has been pegged as an old tradition that no longer rings true. We spend money we don't have on people and their children for whom we feel obligated to buy. We rush around and get stressed out to get everything done for everyone around us who holds a high expectation. We hold on to past bitter memories, and turn something that should be a spiritual experience into a pain in the rump.

Birthday parties are getting to be the same way. What is it that makes us think there is any benefit for anyone involved by purchasing the best gifts, the best party favors, and offering the best attractions? Where is the love, the sharing, and the truth?

If you've got a children's birthday party coming up, throw all of the above right out the window. Create an "experience" for the child and friends looking forward to this special event. If you've got a child harping for ponies, clowns and high-priced gadgets, perhaps it is time to sit down and have a little chat. Children learn what the world teaches them. Parents and guardians are at the forefront of that education, and should be leaders in guiding them toward the proper directions in life. Spend, spend, spending is not a proper direction, no matter how you look at it, and no matter how much money you have.

First off, if your child is requesting big things. Sit down with him or her and inquire as to the reason for such high expectations. Try to soothe the child's need to "be like Bobby" or to "outdo Jenny." Perhaps pose a few questions about how the child might participate in earning something that is important, or costs a lot of money.

Some very unique and inexpensive party favors, gift wrap, greeting cards, and gifts can be bought at your local dollar store. One can find higher quality items by simply looking around a bit. Also, craft kits or crafting items can be purchased to keep the children busy for a while. They will enjoy working on the items and sharing their creations with each other.

A birthday party "theme" doesn't have to include every item under the sun pertaining to that theme. If you're handy in the kitchen, make a cake based on the theme the child desires. If not, either get creative, or find a local baker who can make it. Since the cake could be the central point of the event, that and a few other themed items should suffice.

Games are always fun for children, and can result in distracting them for a sufficient amount of time. Search the internet in advance for great children's party game ideas. You could go with classic games like "Pin the Tail on the Donkey," "Simon Says," and "Musical Chairs," or you could introduce other interesting games like "Ha Ha Ha" or "Copy Cat."

Check this URL for great ideas for children's party games
http://www.kids-birthday- party-guide.com/kid-party-game s.html

Above all, you will want everyone to have a good time. If you feel any competitive spirit amongst the children, you'll want to find a way to curb that as quickly as possible. If you can't throw the most expensive birthday party on the block, one can bet with a little forethought and some creativity, you could throw the most exciting birthday party on the block. Children have a tendency to recall exciting and meaningful events with a more deeply impacting memory than the gifts that were received. Show everyone equal parts love, fun and attention and you can surely come out with a win.

Learn more about this author, Jeannie Pitt.
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