This is a fabulous opportunity for you and your kids! Several of my friends and I have discussed the gluttonous fetes that children’s birthday parties can be if one’s not careful. Mounds of gifts, full menus of four course meals, costumes, decorations, ponies, and more . . . it’s all a little overwhelming. And it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities if you’re planning such a soiree. You just want the best for your kiddo, right? But when is too much too much?
In the Queendom, the King and I have laid down a rule of special “friend” parties @ the ages of 1, 5, 10, and 16. Other years feature a family party (which is actually a decent sized crowd for us with the # of cousins we have on both sides, grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, and a couple of grown up family friends) and/or a special activity with one friend. It keeps us from overspending on birthdays every year and hopefully decreases birthday greed (you know what I’m talking about if you have anyone over the age of 2 in your household).
But I’m seriously pondering bending our rule and throwing a Birthday Party with a purpose with the help of Quaker this year for the eldest princess’ 7th birthday (wow, that seems old!). From Quaker’s Site :
Birthdays are all about great times and being with the ones you care about. Hosting a Birthday Party with a Purpose is a great way to introduce children to the thrill of doing good for their communities while experiencing all the fun of a traditional birthday party.
With 4 UPCs from Granola Bars or Bites, you can mail off for a free kit which includes:
How-To-Guide: Step-by-step instructions for planning and hosting your child’s party.
“Kids Doing Good!” T-Shirt gift for the birthday boy or girl.
Goodness Bags (qty 10), including “Kids Doing Good!” wristbands, temporary tattoos and activity booklets.
Achievement Certificates (qty 10).
What I love the most are the possible themes which come with tons of free downloads (invites, games, a plan of action, thank yous, and more). There’s a pirate theme where you search for loot to donate to hospitalized children, a green party where you learn about helping the environment, a tea party where you make lunch for the homeless, a princess party where you collect books for a low income daycare center, and a cowboy party that benefits a local animal shelter. What an awesome gift to give your child, teaching them how to look beyond themselves! The kit does take 6-8 weeks to arrive so you want to plan ahead!
www.queenoffree.net
