How to Plan an Inexpensive Theme Birthday Party for Young Children

A Little Imagination Can Help Your Party Dollars Go a Long Way

As if planning a birthday party for the preschool set isn’t hard enough—time, budget constraints and limited ideas often make what should be a fun process difficult and stressful. However, with a little imagination and a few basic steps, planning an inexpensive birthday party for young children can be both fun and cost-effective.

Make a Budget
Sounds simple enough, right? After all, planning and throwing your own birthday party has to be less expensive than paying for a party package somewhere else. Wrong. Oftentimes, parties thrown at home become more costly just because parents fail to make – and adhere to—a budget. So decide what you want to spend, and stick to your plan.

Pick a Theme
Not sure how you can compete with the Rocket Blaster themed birthday party that little Timmy had—complete with coordinating napkins, table cloth, and birthday cake? Don’t worry, not all birthday parties have to revolve around the latest and greatest tv characters and their overpriced birthday party accessories. Does your daughter like dolls? Then have a doll-themed party. Is your son’s favorite color blue? Plan a blue party! If you still can’t decide what theme to use, ask your child. Allowing your child to contribute ideas offers him a wonderful opportunity to feel needed, and you the chance to gain a new perspective on his likes and dislikes. However, if all else fails, feel free to use some of these ideas:

• Tea party
• Fireman
• Policeman
• Costume Party
• Picnic
• Dress-up

Prioritize
Hooray! Now all you have to do is implement your theme without emptying your wallet. Start by prioritizing. Make a list of must-haves you are unwilling to eliminate from your party. Is it imperative that you buy the birthday cake at the local bakery? Does your child insist that you invite all 25 preschool classmates? Don’t panic. Just make sure that your must-have list isn’t too long, or you will have defeated your purpose. After all, planning an inexpensive birthday party for children is what motivated you to make the list in the first place.