Alternative Birthdayparty
Birthdays are special occasions, and are especially important when you are a child. Children love to feel older, and they use birthdays to mark another step on the journey towards adulthood.
As a parent or carer, we like to reflect on the progress a child has made each year, and assess how far he or she has come.
When you are choosing the way to celebrate a child's birthday, you need to consider the wishes of the child him/herself. If they have a shy and introverted personality they may prefer some time alone as a family, whereas if they are a gregarious sort, they will probably prefer a large celebration with lots of guests.
A traditional birthday party is the obvious choice as a way to celebrate a birthday, but there are other alternatives, and you might find that one of these suits your child better.
ONE TO ONE
A child who is a member of a large family might like some time alone with one or both parents. They might like to choose an activity such as shopping and a meal to be taken alone with just the three of you.
BEACH TRIP
If you live near the beach, a day at the beach could be the answer. Make sure that all safety rules are followed, and that you have enough adults to supervise the kids, and let them just run wild on the beach for the day.
MEAL OUT
A child who is just coming into adulthood might choose a proper sit-down meal in a fancy restaurant with one or two special friends. Parents could sit on a near-by table to make sure everything goes smoothly.
CRAFT AFTERNOON
Many shops now specialize in birthday treats, and provide crafting entertainment for children to commemorate a special occasion. This could be doll-making, teddy bear dressing or plate painting. Each child goes home with a momento of the day and a goody bag.
ALL ACTION
A child who likes to be out and doing things would appreciate a trip to a paint-balling center, or a go-karting track. Check out the internet to see what activites are available near your home.
SHOPPING
Children who like shopping might be quite happy with a trip to the nearest large shopping mall. Make sure the children have a cell phone and some spending money and just let them loose. As long as they have instructions not to leave the mall, they should be perfectly safe especially if you tag along one or two shops behind! You could arrange for the birthday girl to have a make-over at one of the shops and meet for coffee and lunch.
SWIMMING
Swimming pools often provide special birthday packages, which include the price of the swim plus a birthday cake and sandwiches/pizza. Check your nearest pool for details.
BOWLING
Even the smallest children can go bowling. This activity is an ideal choice is you will be taking other members of your family. It is great if you have a large family and can all join in.
CONCERT
If your child is old enough, you could get them tickets to a gig.
SPORTY
A sporty child would like a trip to see his favorite team play. Ring the sports center, or the manager of his favorite star and see if there is any way a special meeting could be arranged, or at the very least a signed photograph. If you are lucky the stadium will agree to put your child's name in lights at half time.
ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR
If the circus or fun-fair is coming to town, you could take a group of kids to that. Be prepared for sticky candy-floss fingers in your car on the way home!
Each activity will need to be led by the wishes of the child, and planned well in advance. When you child tells you his/her dream outing, see how near you can get to it.
