fun and frugal summer birthday ideas

By Margaret Sarver

Hire some help Hire a couple of local teens/babysitters to help with the party. While you are keeping the kids entertained, the teens can help with cleanup! If you have games, ask the teens to teach the younger kids how to play.

Games Games are an integral part of the party! Instead of going out and purchasing all new games, try setting up “game stations” with board games that you already own. Invite parents of the kids over to help supervise. Rotate stations once each game is complete. Cute idea: Make a version of “Guess Who” using photos of kids attending the party.

Make your cake (and eat it, too) Try hosting a make-yourcupcake/cake party. Guests can help design and bake their own sweet treats. It acts as both the activity and the dessert for the kids and adults!

Location, location Have the party in your backyard. If it’s hot, bring out the sprinklers and enjoy frozen summer treats like ice cream and cool drinks. Cute idea: Set up a makeyour-own-sundae station.

Make your own piñata A popular birthday item for kids’ parties is often a piñata. Instead of spending money on a storemade piñata, have the kids at the party make their own piñata using balloons or paper bags and help them stuff it themselves. It’s cost effective for you and more fun for them!

Arts and crafts Set up an arts and crafts station for the guests. You can stock it with leftover items from craft projects and supplement with a few dollar store buys. From paper bag puppets to clay creations and bead jewelry, crafting is fun for all ages and allows for guests to take home their masterpieces at the end of the party.