1. Lay out your child's party outfit the night before the big day in order to make things as easy as possible. Help them get dressed before the party leaving a few minutes to spare for pre-party pics. This way you can take a "before" and "after" shot and record all of the fun.

2. Prepare your camera and video equipment prior to the festivities. Remember to have an ample supply of film and batteries. And allow your child to be involved; supply a disposable camera for a few photos from there perspective. It is also nice to take at least one picture of each child and enclose it in the corresponding thank-you note.

3. Ask your child prior to the special day who they would like to sit next to. This way you can arrange seating in the most delicate manner possible.

4. Arrange your pre-made nametags alphabetically and pass them out upon each child's arrival. You and the entertainers will have much better luck keeping the partygoers' attention if you can call them by name. It will also be easier for them to get to know one another if you are combining friends from a variety of locales.

5. Try to have your table set prior to the guests' arrival. Set forks, napkins, cups and party hats on the table keeping the plates separate so they are readily available when it is time to cut the cake.

6. Pre-pour, slice, scoop anything you possibly can ahead of time. The less energy you exert preparing food and drinks during the party, the more attention you can shower on the party girl or boy.

7. Another place your child can become involved is in the selection of the music to be played throughout the party. Music can really enhance the environment of your party as children enter and leave and at other unoccupied moments.

8. Temperature can make or break the behavior of any child. Consider this and try to maintain warmth or coolness depending on the season. Remember that with an increase in number of bodies comes an increase in temperature.

9. Allow your child to decide beforehand if they would enjoy opening their presents while their guests are still in attendance. Generally this is the case if there is extra time at the end of the party. Take note of who gave each gift and if possible take a picture of your child as each gift is opened. Again, it is a nice gesture to include this photo with the corresponding thank-you note. If possible, save one present to be opened after the party to counter post-party blues.

Please choose a category below: