How to Throw a Terrific Toddler Birthday Party

Birthday bashes are especially sweet between the years two and five. Your child vibes off the excitement of his or her special day without demanding exorbitant entertainment or expensive décor. So don't miss out on this chance to celebrate!

Planning a party to remember is easier that you think. First you need to determine where to celebrate your child's birthday. Deciding between an at home party or at an outside venue is an age-old parenting quandary.

Outside venues (think Chuck E. Cheese or a local gym) can cost between $250 and $1,000. The cost will vary by the number of guests, the site you pick (fancier is costlier). This amount typically includes a package featuring invitations, organized activities, pizza, cake, balloons, beverages, paper goods and party favors.

If you can swing the cost, the upside is having a staff that is expert at getting kids up and moving and involved in games and activities. Plus, you don't have to clean up the mess!

To save on money and to personalize the affair, many parents select to stay home. But don't be fooled, an at home event can still be pricey if you opt for entertainment, such as a clown and a fancy cake. And don't forget about the time required for set-up, clean up and leading the kids through a few rounds of musical chairs.

The final verdict: select the option that you are most comfortable and excited about and your child is sure to love their special day. Whatever the location, here are some additional ideas to make this the best birthday ever:

Decorate: Reusable cotton flag banners are lovely and will be treasured each year as you set up for the birthday celebration. And never underestimate the power of a balloon. We taped up the number three at my daughter's last party and it was a huge hit and cheap, cheap, cheap decor! Latex Balloons 50 for $5.93

Get Creative: I can't think of a better place to entertain a bunch of sugar-riddled tots than outside. Here's my easy-as-pie party plan: Invite your child's 3-4 best friends, order a pizza, plan one outside activity...ta da! Party! Here are some ideas:

* A pumpkin picking party (October birthdays)

* Apple picking and hay ride (any fall birthday)

* Beach party (it doesn't have to be 80 to enjoy making sand castles)

* Kite flying party

Entertain: There are many moms (and maybe dads) who can turn a tame tot into a scary tiger or a beautiful princess. If you can draw a straight line and circles you can pull off basic face painting. Why not use these talents at the next birthday bash? Snazaroo has a great variety of face-painting kits for beginners (that's me) all the way to professional sets.14-color wheels start at $24.99 and pro kits start at $250. Kits come with plenty of inspirational ideas and diagrams. If you've got a musical family have dad lead the kids in a concert. Got a funny uncle? Have him dress as a clown and lead the games.

Finishing Touches: Announce the number loud and proud with a Number Tee from NYC Playdate.com. These number tees let everyone know who the birthday boy or girl is. Tutu Cute & Moore! (find them on Etsy) has been creating whimsical party hats since 2001. I love her Birthday Party Hat with Letter Beads ($13.50).

And finally don't forget to charge the camera batteries and snap lots of pictures. For more helpful and stylish parenting tips check out my blog, Momtrends.