How to Throw a Party for a Five-Year-Old

Five years old is a big birthday! Five means you're big enough to go to kindergarten. Five calls for a celebration. But parents and children alike really don't need the stress of a huge event. Whether your child is turning five or throwing a Halloween or other special-occasion party, here are some tips for throwing a party for a five-year-old.

Keep the Guest List Short

A good rule of thumb is to have the same number of (child) guests as years of age. Five children will be very manageable, and limiting yourself to five will keep your costs down as well. You may want to have extended family, like grandparents, aunts and uncles, over at a separate time, so that your child can focus on having a good time with his or her friends.

Pick a Theme

This could be a favorite television show or character, a favorite book or a favorite activity (soccer, skating, etc.). You can then plan decorations, activities and food around this theme. You can even save time by purchasing a package of themed decorations and/or activities from a party store (in person or online).

But you can also work with a theme in a more homemade way. Print out themed pictures on your home computer for decorations, or even do your own artwork. Create your own pin-the-tail on the donkey game (pin the crown on the princess, pin the tail on the elephant, etc.). Make your own cake. If you're not an expert cake decorator, you can purchase themed decorations and candles for the cake.

Keep It Simple

You don't have to have a fancy cake, terrific decorations, elaborate games, a bounce house and costumes. Perhaps you could choose one thing that will be really memorable, and do that, but keep the rest simple. And it's not necessary to have a full meal with a child's birthday. Cake and ice cream are fine.

Get Help

Ask a friend or family member to help with some of the activities, or with the food, so that you can concentrate on your child. A friend can even act as party coordinator, reminding everyone when it's time to eat cake or open presents

Consider a Package Party

If you have the money and want to keep things as simple as possible for yourself, consider buying a package party at a restaurant, skating rink or community center. These facilities will often provide everything - cake, activities, party space and a party coordinator - so that you can have a truly worry-free party. We don't do this for every birthday, but we have had good experiences with package parties.