by Rebecca K.

Created on: September 12, 2009

Your baby is turning one and you're so proud. It's only natural to want to throw a great first party for him or her. There are so many different places to hold a party and what theme do you want for them? Coordinating a birthday party can be like the equivalent of planning a mini wedding. Not to say you'll be spending anywhere near that much money, but there is food to consider and a guest list and more.

Some folks feel the need to take their one year old to a water park or play park with rides and things. When you really think about it, a one year old isn't really going to do much at a place like this even if they are walking. Why not wait until they are two or three to have a party at a place like this when they can run around more and enjoy themselves. Probably a good idea for a one year old would be a nice cookout or lunch at home followed by a game or two and cake.

Also, a first party shouldn't be too long either to suit the little guests that will be in attendance. Your little one will get tuckered out and maybe even a little overwhelmed by the larger group of people around him. Two hours or slightly less usually works pretty well in order to eat, play a game, have cake and open gifts. On the invitation you may want to include a specific start and end time so that guests know how to plan their day and no one overstays their welcome.

The food choice for the party doesn't need to be anything fancy. Pick something healthy that kids like which can easily be cleaned up and cut into smaller pieces. It is nice to have some fruit, healthy snacks and fruit juices for the guests as well. Choosing the cake is probably the most fun part of the party. For my son's first birthday, I got him a cake with puppies on it. At the time puppies were his thing. Also instead of buying an expensive cake kit from the bakery, you can have them set up a background on the cake and put a couple of small, washed, toys on it for decor. For my son's second birthday I had them put a field and dirt road background and then I put a horse and farmer on the cake. It worked really well.

Finally when having a first party, be somewhat selective about who you invite. I made the mistake of inviting nearly the whole family- the two sister-in-laws just caused trouble. Also make sure the kids you have there are somewhat well-behaved. My SIL allowed her child to run rampant around my patio spilling food and cake. She also felt the need to go into the house unattended and leave the door open- which let in many flies. Upon my correcting her I was deemed "mean" and was reminded of this again at Christmas time.

Invite those guests and children only who you like and your kids get along with. Don't feel the need to invite the entire family especially if you typically don't get along with them anyhow. The big day is supposed to be about YOUR little one, not about drama that a SIL or niece stir up. Don't let the wrong guests ruin your child's special day.

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