7 Party Planning Tips from a Child Event Helper

by Maureen Ohm with Declan Ohm

Party Planning Tips from a Child Event Helper

From an early age, Declan expressed interest in party planning. Whether we were entertaining at home or helping at another party, he always wanted to take care of guests.

Then, he started to take on entertaining at home, setting up elaborate game nights or carnival games. When I was planning an event within earshot of him, he began sharing suggestions to improve and enhance the event, like a giant wavy arm inflatable man that helped catch the attention of families for the event.

There is something pure about how children view parties. He wanted to help the parents reading this birthday issue with some tips from his perspective. Here are a few ideas from Declan for party planning (in quotes) and follow-up explanations from me.

1. “Start at a cheap area like

McKennan pool/park.”

Birthday parties don’t have to be expensive! A pool/park is a great example of a free resource in

Sioux Falls. Just make sure you have a safe adult-to-child ratio while at a pool.

2. “I would like to talk to the lifeguard about the cake because there’s no food or drinks

allowed.” Regardless of where you plan your party, make sure you talk to the venue about their rules about outside food.

3. “If you can, bring extra tiny little trinkets for

all the kids.” Declan feels that party favors are a nice addition, but he also stressed that this is not important enough to exceed your planned budget.

4. “Skate City, Sky Zone, and Thunder Road are some other good places for a party.”

Sioux Falls has a plethora of great venues for a child’s birthday party. You can check out ‘hood’s Party Planning Directory for more ideas.

5. “Ask the place if they have some birthday routines.”

Some party venues offer activities guided by staff members, which can streamline the party.

6. “If it’s a house party, I recommend putting

up balloons.” Do not underestimate the power of balloons! They can take a simple setting and turn it into a party.

7. “If you can, try to get some pizza.” I think Declan said it all here. People love pizza. l

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