Your baby is turning 1…Congratulations!!! I bet you started making plans for that 1st birthday party by the time he/she was 6 months. But, let’s face reality, a one year old child has no concept of a party and will not remember it years down the road. A child of this age will most likely be more fascinated with the wrapping paper than with the gifts. You will be the one that opens the presents, thanks everyone for the gifts and blows out the candles.

So why have a party for a one year old? A one year old birthday party is not only to celebrate your child’s milestone, but also to celebrate your one year anniversary of parenthood! Of course you are going to plan a party. But planning a party for this age, will be much different than all the ages that follow.

A small family party that lasts only 1/2 hr to 1 hour is probably the best. But if you do consider inviting other children, or even other babies, make sure that you require the parent to accompany their children and that they bring their own supplies (high chair, strollers, bottles, etc). You will also want to schedule the party around your child’s nap schedule, since a cranky baby does not make for a fun party. And before your guests arrive, childproof your play area very carefully.

Serving Refreshments

The birthday cake. I know everyone loves that photo of their child diving, two fists at a time, into the cake and smearing it all over their face. Yes, its cute. But I’m not sure your guests will want to eat the cake after its been destroyed. So, purchase a cake for the candle blowing and the adults to eat, but consider a frosted cupcake for that photo op, or a smaller cake made just for face smashing.

If you have babies attending, then teething biscuits could be a good treat. For younger children you could consider animal crackers or goldfish. A variety of finger foods are good for the adults.

Games

Formal games are really not necessary for children of this age. You could provide a small toy for each child that attends and allow them to choose their “gift”

Photos

Make sure you take lots and lots of photos. Since your child will not remember this party, a 1st birthday party scrapbook will be cherished as they get older. Also consider taking a photo of your child with each family member that attends. Grandparents especially will truly appreciate this photo memory. These photos could be printed and included with your thank you notes later.

Just remember to keep the party short, keep things simple and enjoy every moment of this important milestone in your, and your child’s, life.