Most of us remember the birthday parties we had as children, as one of the most fun parts of childhood. Most birthday parties had a cake, a few cheap games, (like Pin The Tail On The Donkey) presents and the Happy Birthday Song.
Today’s parents feel they must provide professional entertainment, have a bounce house, magician, and outdo all the neighbors. Back in our day, these extravagances were reserved for the children of celebrities. The birthday party lasts one afternoon. The birthday boy or girl gets their gifts, the neighborhood gets a day of celebration, and mom and dad get credit card bills that take months to pay off.
There are ways to give your child a unique and special party, without dipping into their college fund. We will share a few of these ideas with you below. Before we begin, we would like to point out that we are going against tradition here. For example, instead of a sheet cake that cost a fortune, we suggest buying candy from an online supplier. Make goodie bags that match the theme of your party. 
Save the cake for your family dinner that is in honor of your birthday child. You can also set up a buffet or bar and display containers of candy. This is a cheap and easy way to treat guests. Get creative. You can use ice cream cones filled with scoops of pretty cotton candy, stuff small jars with gummy insects, or make lollipop trees. You are only limited by your imagination.
Toddlers
Young children are easily entertained. They love simple parties that keep the focus on them for a few hours. For your cheap DIY toddler party, why not have a Teddy Bear Parade?
Invite each guests to bring their favorite teddy bear or other stuffed toy. Set up a “costume room”. This is where you will have baskets of dress up clothes, shoes, bags, and other items. You can get your accessories from home, friends. The Goodwill, garage sales, and the local dollar store. Here are some suggestions:
Sparkly materials
Hats
Ribbons
Bows
Beads and necklaces
Make-up
Flowers and flowered leis
Umbrellas
Canes
Walking sticks
Each guest goes to the costume room to dress up and to dress up their Teddy Bear. When everyone is ready, form a line and begin the parade. March the party around the block or through the park. The parade ends at the location decorated and selected for the guest of honor to sit and unwrap gifts.
School aged children
DIY Calming Glitter Jars are super fun and easy to make and costs very little. You need a jar (plastic if the kids are very young) with a lid, glitter glue in various colors, (chunky glitter and fairy dust are also recommended) food coloring, water, and some kids that want to have fun. Click here for exact instructions.
No bake DIY playdough is fun and easy and cheap. You will need flour, salt, water, food coloring, oil, and glitter. The simple instructions are found here.
Some great ideas for older kids and teens include:
Scavenger hunt
Making decorative picture frames (use thrift store frames and buy accessories in bulk)
Karaoke
Pool party
Backyard touch football
picnic
Whatever you decide to do, use your imagination and let the kids get creative.
Partnered post.
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