Planning a birthday party for your child is a little exciting and challenging. The sort of place provided is very spacious, where children can run, play, and enjoy fresh air. Among all the interesting, yet not costly ideas, a playground birthday party would be one of them.
Just like the mystery room Koramangala, a birthday party at the playground lets the kids make excellent memories! Natural environment along with equipment all set to play saves time and money when it comes to entertainment. Here is a simple guide on how to throw a memorable birthday party for your child and his or her friends.
1. Choose the Best Playground
First, select the correct playground. Not all playgrounds are the same so select one which would best suit your needs. So check out the following factors:
- Located near your house or easily accessible for your visitors
- Gives wide ranges of different equipment targeted at different age groups
- Provides some shade spots so both kids as well as their parents can take some rest
- If it provides picnic tables or benches for dining
It is very advisable that prior to your visit, you should check out the playground. That will give you a better chance at knowing the playground, the conditions of the toilets, and parking.
2. Local Rules and Permits:
Just remember that before sending out the invites, you must have inquired at your local park's department about reserving the playground or if you need to secure a permit. Some public parks may have a regulation on the number of guests, decorations, or even food. Knowing all these beforehand would save you from a surprise on the said day.
3. Theme (Optional but Fun!)
A theme adds a little extra fun to the party and helps to bring everything under-the-roof-from decoration to games together. Some popular themes for a playground birthday party are as follows:
- Superheroes
- Princesses or fairy tales
- Sports (soccer, baseball, etc.)
- Dinosaurs
- Outer space
Simple themed decorations, party hats, or costumes will make the celebration special. Even the party favors and the birthday cake can be customized to match the theme!
4. Timing Wisely
Since a playground is an open field, timing is also crucial. Holding it during hot weather like in summer time means that the 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. time slot is completely out of the question. Otherwise, holding it in the morning or afternoon is just perfect. Also, please observe the weather forecast beforehand. Always nice if there is some kind of rainy day alternative, like a nearby shelter or rescheduling the event.
5. Prepare and Send Invitations
As you prepare and send out invitations, remember to include the following:
- Date and time of the party
- Location of the playground
- Information about the theme; if you have one
Paper invites may be mailed, but an e-mail or even a post online to services such as Evite or Facebook might be much more useful for most parents.
6. Plan Simple Games and Activities
Although it is well convenient for entertainment purposes, it's always great to have games or activities up one's sleeves. These will entertain the kids, giving a framework to the party. Here are some ideas for easy games to have in the party:
- Scavenger hunt: Prepare a list of items or landmarks that can be found all around the playground.
- Relay races: Take up all open space for a fun race with or without equipment such as cones or hoops
- Parachute games: Take one large parachute and play simple parachute games that the kids are familiar with, including "Popcorn" in which children try to bounce balls off of the parachute
Keep the games small and not challenging so the children might be satisfied playing in the playground facilities.
7. Kid-Friendly Snack and Drinks
Snacks and drinks are also required to boost up the energetic spirits of kids. Since this party would be outdoors, use only such snacks that could be easily consumed. Here are some ideas:
- Fruit skewers or pre-cut fruit
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Veggie sticks with dips
- Pretzels, chips, or popcorn
- Candy/Desserts
Provide water throughout based on that day's level of heat. Offer a small snacking station for parents with coffee or light refreshments.
8. Bring all Needed Supplies
The playground is fun, but you will still want to bring along a few supplies to keep your party running smoothly. Some things you might want to package to bring along include:
- Tablecloths
- Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
- Trash bags for clean up later
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
9. Party Favors and Goodie Bags
It's always sweet giving out some little reminders to the guests at the tailend of the party. Goodie bags for a playground party must be simple, functional, and easy to understand. Some ideas are:
- Bubbles or sidewalk chalk
- Mini frisbees or balls
- Stickers or temporary tattoos
- Treats or sweets
10. Have A Super Day!
Let's not forget that the most important thing in this party is everybody, especially your child who would have fun. Do not think so much about perfection. As long as there are children running around, laughing and playing on the playground, that would be a great party already.
Conclusion
When it is about a birthday party in the playground, then it can be an excellent way to enjoy a casual outside celebration with children and adults alike. Your child's birthday party will surely never be forgotten when you reflect upon showing little thought and creativity.
