Tammy's Ten: Tips for Hosting an Outdoor Children's Birthday Party

It takes preparation to throw a good party for kids of any age. A birthday is a special event that children want to celebrate. In the summer an outdoor party works well and friends and family may want to attend. To throw a memorable bash for all, see Tammy's Ten for useful suggestions.

1. Invitation ideas.

• Let your guests know the party will be outdoors
• Inform your guests of special attire or themes
• Tell your guests if you will be providing a meal
• Let your guests know of any special activities
• Remember the usual date, time and place

2. Decorate and prepare.

• Mow the lawn and pooper scoop
• Arrange the tables, umbrellas and chairs
• Anchor and tie decorations from the wind
• Put covers on food to keep away flies
• Bring garbage bags and paper towels
• Have extra sunscreen, bug spray and towels for guests
• Organize the outdoor activities
• Make sure your party is ready to start

3. Food and drink suggestions.

• Serve cheese cubes and crackers throughout the party
• Have fruit or vegetable trays for snacking
• Place chips or party food in convenient places
• Have a cooler with ice outside for drinks
• Serve a kid-friendly meal like hotdogs or pizza
• Bring the cutlery and dishes or paper plates
• Small children need to eat and drink often!

4. Birthday cake ideas.

• Serve a mixture of cake both chocolate and vanilla
• Tie ribbons or balloons on the birthday child's chair
• Bring the high chair or booster seat if required
• Don't forget the matches to light the candles
• Stop the party to sing the birthday song
• Keep cloths and wipes handy for sticky fingers!

5. Bathroom access is a requirement.

• Utilize the bathrooms in your house
• Get access to the pavilion or rent a portable toilet
• Designate a change area for your guests
• Bring sanitizer or extra toilet paper
• Little kids can't hold it long!

6. Entertainment should be planned.

• Bubbles are cheap and easy fun
• Swings and climbers keep the kids active
• Balls and toys make small kids happy
• Kids music gets the party hopping
• Don't do all the activities at once!

7. Water play works great for outdoor events.

• Water guns are great and cheap to buy
• Water balloons work well for fun in the sun
• Splash pads or sprinklers are easy entertainment
• Do water play at the end of the party!

8. Consider safety issues.

• Designate lifeguards if you are using a pool
• Watch barbecues or fires around young children
• Keep choking hazards away from babies
• Watch toddlers around the swings and climbers
• Look for runaways if there is no fence
• Watch your own kids while you host the party
• Make sure to have enough parents to help!

9. Grab bags or party favors.

• Pack the grab bags for your party in advance
• Use different items for boys, girls and babies
• Make spare bags in case of damage or extra guests
• Bubbles, candy, small toys and stickers are popular
• Place them at the door or exit where they won't be forgotten!

10. Outdoor parties need a back-up plan.

• Prepare your house in case of rain
• Rent the pavilion at the local park
• Put up a large tent in your backyard
• Tell guests to bring rain boots and coats
• Choose a rain date in case you need to postpone

The summer is the best time for birthday parties and an outdoor event can be fun for all. Make sure your guests are aware in advance and cross your fingers for a sunny day. Make sure to take videos or lots of pictures. You can cherish these memories for years to come. Happy planning!