Six mistakes to avoid for a super-special birthday party

Would you like to throw a memorable party for your child’s upcoming birthday? For a snag-free celebration, don’t make these common party planning mistakes:

1. Inviting the whole neighborhood: keep the guest list as short as possible to avoid ending up in charge of a flock of overexcited children, especially if you’re the sole supervisor.

2. Sending last-minute invitations: send out your invitations at least two weeks before the party to give yourself and other parents enough time to prepare.

3. Planning too many activities: don’t get carried away with a jam-packed schedule. Two or three fun activities—a magic show, a treasure hunt, an arts and crafts project—will be more than enough to keep everyone occupied.

4. Not considering allergies: better safe than sorry, as they say. Ask invitees’ parents if their children have any allergies or other dietary restrictions and plan your menu accordingly.

5. Letting the party drag on: so much excitement will have your pint-sized guests tuckered out faster than you might think. Three hours is a good length for a kids’ birthday party.

6. Having no plan B: if the party is set to take place mostly outdoors, make sure you have an alternative in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. Kid-approved options include a trip to a museum or to an indoor playground.