Prince George is about to turn one year old. Who can believe it was a whole year since we all sat glued to our TV screens, waiting to hear the news!
Parenting on Female First
A child’s first birthday is a huge, happy milestone - perhaps not so much for the baby, who quite frankly has no idea what’s going on and just wants to bury their face in cake icing, but for the parents.
It’s also the moment we wake up and think, ‘where DID that year go?’
Where Kate Middleton may have the help of her sister, Pippa the party planner, you may not know where to start with your little one’s first big do. Modern Family Expert for Care.com, Liz Fraser, has some invaluable tips:
Keep present-buying simple
You can buy the most expensive, amazing, stimulating toy in the world for your child’s first birthday…and chances are all they will do is play with the box. Remember this! A few simple, fun toys and books to play with (and try to eat...) are all that’s required at this stage. Believe me, you’ll be glad of that saved money as they get older and want the latest electronic gadget or expensive trainers.
Stay close to home
Once you have sorted the timings around your child’s sleep routines, it is important not to get carried away with big, over the top plans. Keep it simple and small with close friends and family. Having the party at home makes decorating and getting the birthday boy or girl ready easier, whilst keeping them in a familiar place.
Be resourceful
If you do decide to plan your event somewhere other than home, take your trusty bag of fun things to entertain your child and the other children that come along in case they become restless. Don’t forget that everyday items can be fascinating for small children too. Party bags are also a lovely gesture but there’s no need to worry about making a statement with these.
Invite those closest to you
You might feel like you have to invite everyone who has played a part in the first year of your child’s life. Take into consideration your child’s personality and how they are with large groups of people though, perhaps inviting only close family and friends who you want to create those special memories with.
Get decorative
If making the place look pretty is key to your party planning, bright coloured decorations create a happy and exciting environment. Balloons are a lovely decoration but will almost instantly create chaos with terrified children if they pop. Paper bunting is a great alternative and also a fun activity for younger children to be involved with making.
Enjoy!
Whilst all of the planning and logistics can be pretty hectic in the run up to the party, as well as overseeing the party on the day, make sure to enjoy this special moment with your child so that you can create some happy first memories.
However you prepare for your child’s first birthday, the most important thing is to create memories and surround yourself with close friends and family. Enjoy yourself!
For more information visit www.uk.care.com