Organising your child’s birthday party is a serious job. Once upon a time it would have been enough to play musical chairs, serve up jelly and ice-cream and play pass the parcel, before sending the kids home with a party bag that contained a slice of birthday cake and a pencil.
It is no surprise that children’s parties have been unable to escape being spoilt by image and status and our desire to show off. In some way this can be attributed to the ridiculous example provided by celebrities. We hear that Tom Cruise has paid Disneyworld to close the park for the day so his children can enjoy it, and suddenly the idea filters down to wealthy – but not celebrity parents – bringing in acrobats, clowns and a mini-theme park to their little darling’s fifth birthday.
While there may be practical reasons for the actions of Mr. Cruise – the threat of the paparazzi and fans making it physically impossible for him and his family to enjoy any public space is one of them – there is no logical explanation for the behaviour of other parents.
The problem with extravagant birthday parties for children is that it begins a vicious circle both with other parents trying to keep up and with the child expecting bigger and better year after year. A clown this year might lead to requests for a face-painter next year and before you know it, you have to hire out a petting zoo complete with ponies and bunnies that way that Gwyneth Paltrow had to for her daughter.
While spoiling a child has implications that the parents have to bear – and you could argue that they will get what they deserve – the other implications of extravagant birthday parties has an effect on other parents. You might have a load of money to throw at your child’s birthday party, but other parents might not. Unfortunately, few children realise the way that money and finances work, and it puts unbearable pressure on parents to have to tell their child they while their friend Georgie can have superhero characters at her party, they can’t.
It is sometimes the case that children’s parties, like Christmas, can swing families who are in a vulnerable financial position into debt. Would you want to be the parent that was ultimately responsible for that?
Some celebrities use their money wisely – and if you are an affluent parent this is one leaf you could take out of their book. Have a simple, low-scale party and make a donation to a children’s charity. Use the blessing of your child’s birthday to make the lives of other families more comfortable. Not only will this make you feel good, but it is an important lesson for your child to learn.
Children will enjoy a party with yummy food, fun games – you could even use educational toys – and a party bag with cake, stationary and party toys. Choose party toys that are popular with kids – ask your child for help with what’s in and what’s out. You can find both party toys and educational toys online and at all good kids’ stores. All you have to worry about it making the cake!