Selecting a Date for your Child’s Party
It would be a perfect world if every child could have their birthday party actually on their birth day. However, today’s world consists of holidays, schedules, and other factors. First look at the child’s actual birth date and work from there. It is not a good idea to schedule your child’s party on a holiday, because some businesses are closed and guests often have traditions of being at certain family events. If you are having a home birthday party that is at a holiday time like Christmas or Halloween, then unless you are planning on having those decorations as your theme, you may want to schedule two weeks ahead or behind those holidays. If the birthday falls on or near a holiday, for attendance purposes, you may want to have the party at least a week before or after the holiday. Remember the most important person to attend the birthday party is the birthday child. Check your birthday child’s calendar schedule of upcoming events. Then, look at your schedule for possible conflicts. Sunday afternoon parties allow for preparation and higher guest attendance. Sunday is typically a morning religious school day. Starting the party at 12:30 pm, you will need to provide a lunch as is the typical custom. If the party is only to last two hours and begins at 2pm, then you can get away with just cake and ice-cream. If the party starts anytime after 4pm, then plan on serving dinner.
Once you have picked a date and time using the above you will need to check it against your desired party location for possible conflicts and to obtain reservations if required.
Party Basics at a Glance
Ages 1 to 2
Time of Day: After Nap Time
Duration: 1 Hour
Number of Guests: Varies
Ages 3 to 4
Time of Day: Lunchtime or Late Afternoon
Duration: 1 to 1 1/2 hours
Number of Guests: 4 to 5 Children
Ages 5 to 6
Time of Day: Early to Mid-Afternoon
Duration: 1 1/2 to 2 Hours
Number of Guests: 6 to 7 Hours
Ages 7 to 8
Time of Day: Early to Mid-Afternoon
Duration: 2 to 2 1/2 Hours
Number of Guests: 8 to 9 Children
Ages 9 to 10
Time of Day: Mid- to Late Afternoon
Duration: 2 1/2 to 3 Hours
Number of Guests: 10 to 11 Children
Children's Birthday Party Planner 