First Birthday Party Ideas & Cake

Your child's first birthday is quite special and planning the birthday party can be somewhat stressful as you try to make it just perfect. Following are some ideas to help make your child's first birthday party something to remember but not something to overwhelm you.

Guests
Your child is only going to be one. So most likely, they won't really have any idea of what is going on. The first birthday party is more for close friends and family who want to help celebrate your special child's first year of life. With that in mind, it's important not to overwhelm your child with too many guests. Your child doesn't need a house full of other one year olds to celebrate. So try to keep the party as small as possible. If you are afraid you might hurt someone's feelings by not including them, then just limit it to local family and tell them you are doing so. Include those not invited or who can't attend by sending out a special card with a recent picture of your child.

Time
When choosing a time for your party keep in mind nap times and plan accordingly. Keep in mind time of day as well. Do you want to serve a meal or just snacks? Usually, the simpler the better so don't plan the party too close to the start of a mealtime. Also, limit the amount of time for the party. An hour and ½ is plenty for a first birthday party. You can even list the start and end time on the invitation to make sure everyone knows it will be short and sweet.

Activities
Since your child is too young for pin the tale on the donkey at this age there really isn't any need for organized activities. You can give your guests something to do by placing a picture of your child in a photo matte and let guests sign a special message to your one year old. You could also put a collage together of all your child's first accomplishments for guests to enjoy. A fun way to end a party could also be a piñata for the older kids.

The Cake
A great idea for a first birthday cake is a cake in the shape of a number one. If you aren't a cake expert, it can still be quite easy and fun to make as well.

You will need:
Sheet cake pan: 11 x 15"
2 boxes of cake mix
2 cans whipped frosting
Food coloring/cake decorations as needed

Make the cake mix according to the box instructions in one large bowl. Cook the cake mix in the large greased & floured sheet cake pan at 325 degrees for 35 minutes. Let cool completely in the pan. After cooled flip onto a serving platter. You can use a large piece of cardboard wrapped in aluminum foil if you don't have a platter large enough. Use a template to mark where to cut the cake and use a serrated knife to cut the cake in the shape of a number one. See image for cut lines. Save the cut pieces. Color the pre-made frosting to your liking and frost the cake. Decorate with candies or as you like.

You can make a mini-cake out of the cut out pieces of the cake for your one year old. You can frost with cool whip and decorate with cheerios for a less sugary option. Finally, make sure to have a great time and take lots of pictures!!