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Birthday parties are one of the most memorable times in a child's life. My son is now fourteen and we have had all but one of his parties in our home. I never spend money on professional entertainment, I just put my heart and soul into giving him an original fun and crazy party. Home is where the heart is and children love to celebrate their party surrounded by family and friends in a birthday decorated home, with lots of food, fun and gifts. The child's age and your budget will be a guide in your planning and purchases. I recommend at least one month in advance that you decide on the type of party you are going to throw. The sky is the limit and the choices are many so have fun and don't be afraid to get creative. Remember, it is all about having fun. A few suggestions for your party include a "Theme Party" like Harry Potter or Sponge Bob, a "Pool Party" but don't forget to include on the invitation that it is a "Pool Party" so guests can come prepared to get wet, a "Scavenger Hunt Party" where you will have to make up a list of items for the kids to find which can take place in or outside your home or even in a Target store. Please don't forget to get permission from the store manager prior to starting a game like this as you may find kids in the back of police cruiser. A few more ideas include a "Video Game Party" and have the kids challenge each other on a game like Wii Bowling or their favorite Wii Sports game. Lastly, a "Lottery Party" which I think was one of my biggest hits yet. We played a variety of games including Bingo and Deal or No Deal. Each time a child won, they got to pick an envelop which included either cash or play lottery tickets. You can order play lottery tickets on-line at various web sites. I decorated the envelops and taped them on the wall in the party room. The games are a blast but don't forget that kids will make their own fun. A few more ideas to stimulate your creativity include scattering balloons throughout the house, leave little hand held games around for them to just pick up and play with, and my all time favorite is crazy string. I purchase a can for each guest and let them have at it outside! From experience I keep the food simple and age appropriate. These kids are usually to busy to sit and eat so only think about food on the go. You can pre-cook burgers and hot dogs if you choose those menu options. I have learned to order a tray of sandwiches, pizzas and have chips and candies around the party area. All these ideas can be easily altered to meet the ages of the guests. Decorate to your taste but I love the balloons because they provide something for the kids to play with. They become a functional decoration and provide hours of fun. Good luck with hosting your next party. It will be a smash!

Learn more about this author, Patricia Gill.
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