Over the last few weeks with my own daughter’s 1st Birthday Party looming, I have been gathering tips for this event.  I have put together what I think to be the Top 10!

1.Nap Time!

This really is the No. 1 rule!  Make sure you arrange the party around the time your child has her nap.  Do not attempt to rearrange her schedule to fit the party.  She will be cranky and by the end of it so will the rest of the family!

2.Danger – Babies on the Prowl!

If you are having other babies to the party, remember they are not all necessarily at the same stage of development as your child.  While your baby might still be crawling at one year another may be walking or vice versa.  These different stages pose a variety of household hazards.  Also while your baby is used to your house, it will be new territory for someone else’s child.   A good tip is to get down on the floor at the same level as a baby and spot the potential dangers from their perspective.

3.And then there are the grown-ups!

The adults visiting your house for the party do not necessarily know which doors need to be kept closed or how to work your particular stair gate properly or where it is safe to leave a drink or food.  Firstly their house is going to be different and secondly not everyone at your party may have children of their own.  People will generally appreciate if you just mention to them on arrival that this door stays closed and not to leave their glass on the coffee table etc.  It saves a lot of upset if it prevents a glass of red wine being spilt or a baby falling down the stairs because a gate isn’t closed properly.

4.Changing Stations!

If you can clear one room, perhaps a bedroom and reserve it for Mum’s to bring babies that need to be changed, fed or even to have a sleep away from the rest of the party then you will find a lot of Mother’s will be more relaxed knowing they have a little haven to go to.  Make sure you have some extra nappies, baby wipes and towels to hand in case they are needed.

5.Game Stations!

Should there be older children coming to the party, again it might be an idea to have a room with toys and games suitable for them.  Older children will get fed up listening to adults talking and watching babies playing so facilitating them will make for a much happier occasion!

Stay tuned for more next week!