Planning a Kids Birthday Party on a Budget: Moneysaving Tips

Are you a parent planning a birthday party for your elementary school aged child? If so, are you also on a budget? Planning a fun and exciting birthday party with limited financial resources may seem like an impossible task, but it doesn't have to be. If you have a strict birthday planning budget, continue reading on for a few moneysaving tips.

Keep the Number of Kids Small

Ask a kindergarten who they want to invite their birthday party and chances are they will say "my whole class." This is a great concept. You don't want some classmates to feel left out, but can you really afford to host a party for 20 kids? If not, don't even attempt to try. A good guide is to invite your child's five closest friends or their gender. For example, if your child is a girl, invite all the girls in her class. The fewer kids you have in attendance, the cheaper it will be.

Have the Party at Home

Having a birthday at a bowling alley or ice skating rice is nice, but very costly. Many charge $100 or more for just 10 kids. Any more children and that price increases. You are also at the mercy of rules and restrictions. If you can't bring your own food, you may be forced to pay $25 or more for just one pizza! Save money by hosting your child's birthday party at home. If the weather is nice and your home is small, opt for an outdoor party in your backyard.

Think Free or Cheap

As previously stated, it is best to host your child's birthday party at your home. If you live in a small apartment or are hosting a party in the middle of winter, this may be out of the question. Then, focus on free and cheap. Local parks are free, unless you want to rent a pavilion. Most local fire stations have party rooms available for rent by the hour. They aren't as fancy has hotel banquet rooms, but they are hundreds of dollars cheaper.

Mix It Up Between Themed and Cheap Decorations

To celebrate kids birthday parties, many parents go all out with the decorations. If you are on a budget, you can't. Does your child want a Dora the Explorer themed birthday party? If so, head to your local department store or party store. Buy a few Dora themed plates and napkins, but don't buy enough for the entire party. Next, head to your local dollar store. They have colored plates, napkins, banners, balloons, and streamers. With a Dora the Explorer theme, you could buy the color pink or purple. On the day of the party, mix up the plates and napkins. Many people won't even notice the difference, but you will notice the price savings.

Opt for Snack Instead of Lunch

You could easily spend $40 to buy pizza for all party guests and their parents who stay behind. To save money, opt for snacks instead. Pay attention to sales and stock up on crackers, cookies, chips, fruits and vegetables, and juice in the weeks leading up to your child's birthday party. With that same $40 you could buy enough snacks to feed your child's party guests and have leftovers for home!

Don't Buy Party Lots of Party Games

When many parents think of kids birthday party ideas, games are often the first thing that comes to mind. Birthday party games are important, but don't spend a lot of money. With the exception of pin the tail on the donkey, save your money. Musical chairs is fun and requires nothing more than chairs, a CD player and music from home. With small children, like toddlers and preschoolers, you may find that games are actually more of an inconvenience. Have snacks, music, and a few toys handy. Watch as the kids keep themselves occupied and have a blast.