Birthday Parties Without the Superheroes... And the Expense

Birthday parties for children have become more of an event rather then a celebration. Places like Build A Bear are popular but really expensive. Renting large carnival equipment like popcorn makers or air slides is party 'must haves' for these birthday parties. I understand wanting a child to have a great time, but birthday parties cannot be like Christmas. For a lot of families those types of things are just too expensive. Some families who don't have the money to spend on such elaborate parties do anyways to keep up with their children's friends. You can have a fun party without all the unnecessary expense.

1. Instead of a cake, have the children decorate cupcakes or plain cookies! A great activity and you don't have to worry about those picky eaters!

2. Instead of goodie bags make your own piñata! It is actually really easy and you can find patterns and recipes online.

3. Have a themed party, have the children come in costume!

4. Instead of matching tablecloths and napkins have the kids decorate. My favorite is tape down brown paper bags and put out crayons and markers. Then ask the kids to draw and decorate on their own. They especially love this activity because how often are you allowed to draw on the table!

5. Make silly hats using construction paper, tape, safety scissors, and streamers! Another fun activity that allows children to be creative and make something really personalized.

6. Chalk or painting the driveway is another fun activity that allows the children to be outside.

7. A small wading pool with shaving cream can be a super blast. You can draw with shaving cream; make silly hairdos, and all kinds of fun stuff. Just keep in mind it can be a little slippery!

8. Play ice skating; tape down with duck tape a large piece of clear plastic, and spray shaving cream all over the plastic. Have the kids take their shoes off and go for it!

9. Scavenger hunts with hidden treasures are easy to do. If the age group you have can not read, then use pictures for the scavenger hunt instead.