4th of July Party Planning for Your Child

Is your child begging you for a 4th of July party? Are you saying 'no' because you just don't want to go through the hassle? Well don't fret. The following is a step-by-step guide to throwing a simple summer party in celebration of this holiday that you and your child will both be happy with.

1) Decide on the number of children. This aspect is key, so you should determine first how many children you want in your house. A good number for any child and a normal sane adult is 5 to 10. What do I mean? Invite no less than five children to your home and no more than ten. This range will ensure that your child's party is not dead nor too lively for you to handle.

2) Get the food. Sit down with your child and decide on one dish that will be the main course. It should be the food item you cook the best. For example, if you roast a mean weenie, then have a weenie-themed party with chicken, beef and turkey franks. Make sure to get all of the normal condiments that go with hotdogs along with buns. You can do the same with burgers or even ribs.

Pick a few sides that go with your main course well. You can go with the traditional cole slaw, potato-salad and/or chips. They can be home-made or store-bought. Do what is easiest for you in this case because most children won't mind either way.

For dessert, you can buy a large tub, fill it with ice and then add a variety of frozen treats ranging from fruit pops to ice-cream bars. Whatever you fill your tub with, it needs to be child-friendly, non-bake and tasty.

Finally, arrange your food in a manner that allows easy access. What do I mean? This access could be you fixing each plate and handing it to a child or each child going for it (with supervision). Just make sure it's not near a stove or dangerous area in your home. A wise choice would be a table set outside that's near the eating area. Eating areas can range from wooden tables or blankets on the grass.

3) Plan the drinks. You'll need another tub filled with ice for this part of the barbecue. Buy inexpensive bottled water, fruit drinks and soda. Then put them on ice. Just like the desserts, your child's guests should be able to choose a beverage with ease.