It’s easy to remember the excitement of an approaching birthday when you were a child. Hours spent counting down the minutes, wondering if you would magically feel different when you became an hour older.
It’s the same for kids today, and now you see it from the other side- as a parent. Birthdays are the one special day in the year when the focus is solely on one person. Christmas and Easter are great celebrations, but nothing puts you at the center of attention like your birthday.
If you’re anything like most parents, you’re probably planning on going all out to celebrate your little one’s special day. We can all remember fantastic birthdays from our childhood; it’s only natural to want to bring that kind of jollity to your child, too! If the usual backyard party just isn’t cutting it for your inventive self, there are a few unusual ideas that you can mull over. Consider exploring resources like NJ Swing Sets for unique experiences like hosting a birthday celebration at a venue specializing in kids’ activities, or perhaps organizing an outdoor adventure, providing lasting memories beyond the traditional party setting.
Petting Zoo
Yes, it’s still a backyard party, but it’s a bit more interesting than a bouncy house and ice cream. Specialist companies can bring a touch of the exotic to your home, and give kids a hands-on experience they’re unlikely to forget. If your child has got a bit of a wild streak, you can even request visits from more exotic creepy-crawlies such as spiders and snakes.
Zoo Trip
Petting zoo a little bit too small scale for you, but want to keep the animal theme? It looks like a day trip to the zoo is on the cards! Ask your child to assemble a list of their closest friends. You can ask that parents provide the transport, but it can be easier to keep everyone in a group. You can travel together using simple Travelling with kids is never easy, so make sure you have plenty of distractions for the journey too.
Theme Park
If your child is more a thrill seeker, then take a few of their friends to the theme park closest to you. While it might not seem like a party as such, many parks have the ability to host a party on their grounds. Talk to them about what they offer; if you live close enough, then it could be an option. Just remember to suggest the biggest rides wait until after their party food has settled!
White Water Rafting
Wherever you live, there should be opportunities for white water experiences. If your child is a go-getter with an adrenaline seeking attitude, then nothing is better than this. They can spend the day on the water – don’t worry, it’s very safe – and then celebrate with a small backyard party. To really make an impact, theme the party around water and wild rivers, to make the whole day knit together perfectly.
In the end, the decision over what type of celebration to pick is going to depend on your child. Don’t feel the need to keep things a secret; let them have an impact and be able to have an input into a day they will adore, and remember for years to come.
Let your child help out with writing the party invitation cards, deciding the menu and guest list, and choosing the theme, and party favors. Their birthday will be more fun and unforgettable for them if they have a hand at organizing their own party.