1st Birthday Party - 12 Top Do's and Don'ts

                                                                                         

Your baby is turning one and that's worth celebrating! Of course, you want to have a first birthday party in honor of his special day. But how do you plan for such an important occasion? How do you make sure that your baby's first birthday is a wonderful time for both you and him? These top twelve do's and don'ts will point you in the right direction.

DO keep the birthday party simple. Your baby won't really comprehend what the fuss is all about. This day is for you to enjoy and to celebrate the amazing child that has transformed your life. So don't over complicate anything, so you are free to relish every moment.

DON'T struggle over finding the perfect theme for the party. Your one year old won't notice. Next year, he may be begging you for Elmo or Winnie the Pooh, but this year you can do whatever is easiest.

DO make the party short. An hour or so is enough excitement for a one year old. Any longer than two hours and he might go into celebration overload.

DO schedule the birthday party for a time when your baby is less likely to be tired and cranky. If he usually takes an early afternoon nap, then a late afternoon party is best.

DON'T invite too many people. A room full of strangers crowding around your little one can be overwhelming. Choose close friends and relatives to share his special day.

DO have the party at home, if possible. This is the place your baby feels most secure. There will be a lot of activity that day that he doesn't quite understand. So, it's important for him to feel comfortable and safe in the midst of all the strange birthday festivities.

DO keep your eyes open for potential dangers. If a balloon pops, make sure you put it in the trash immediately, because it could become a choking hazard.

DON'T serve food that is challenging to eat. Finger foods are best for little ones. And adults like them, too!

DO have a birthday cake or cupcakes. It's fun for everyone to watch your one year old eat his first birthday cake, and a great photo opportunity. Just watch out for your baby and the lit candle.

DO consider invitations and favors that are personalized with your child's photo. Most of your guests for this birthday party will be adults who have loved and supported you and your baby through his first year. Grandmothers, aunts, and other friends and loved ones will be thrilled with a keepsake featuring a picture or pictures of the birthday boy or girl.

DON'T forget to charge the camera batteries or take tons of photos. You may be busy and preoccupied with the celebration, but your one year old won't remember the party, so you'll want to make sure you document every moment. And of course, the grandparents will want copies of every picture you take. You might even decide to send out photo thank you notes after the party, so keep your camera ready.

DO make a first birthday memory book after the party. This is a great gift you can give to your child. In the future, he will be able to visualize the party. Take photos of the cake, decorations, guests, and of course, him. You can simply put it in a regular photo album or make a scrapbook, complete with journaling your thoughts about his special day. You can even include a page where each guest writes something special to your one year old. You might also want to slip in one of his photo party invitations.

So, simplify, relax and enjoy this special day. Your baby's first birthday party is a milestone that comes along only once in his life, so cherish every wonderful moment.

About the author:
Linda Kling, as the owner of Photo Party Favors, has been in the party business for over 17 years and she recommends these 1st birthday photo favors and 1st birthday photo invitations.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com