Over the last few months social distancing restrictions were tighter and birthday celebrations were a low-key (or virtual) affair. But now that restrictions are starting to be lifted, parents are asking what birthday parties are going to look like. Is it OK to have a cake? How many children can we invite? What party games can we play?
Here we’ll look at what small changes we can all make to give our children a party that is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
The guest list
Instead of: inviting a large number of people
Consider: keeping numbers smaller, especially if their parents/carers are likely to be staying for the party.
The number will depend on the size of your space and the venue, as well as any Government restrictions in place at the time.
Less people attending can actually be better as some children can find big parties overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be a big party to be special.
Accepting the invitation
Instead of: feeling uncomfortable
Consider: how well you and your children are. Remember it’s OK to cancel at the last minute if anyone is unwell. Just contact the party host to apologise. If you’re not yet feeling comfortable to attend or host a party (for whatever reason), this is OK too. It’s important that we’re honest and respectful of everyone’s feelings and experience during this time.
The venue
Instead of: an indoor play centre
Consider: having the party outdoors (weather permitting of course). A park, playground or your backyard can make the perfect place for a party. Make sure you mention it on the invitation so that parents can dress their children (and themselves) for the weather.
If you want to consider a party indoors at home, consider the size of your space and how many adults will likely be there. Make sure there is enough room for adults to physically distance. And remember if you’re hosting the party at your house, make sure everyone in the household is well before having people over and give your place a good clean before and after.
The food
Instead of: blowing out the candle on a whole birthday cake and having shared plates/bowls
Consider: giving the birthday child a candle to blow out on their own cupcake (or own slice of cake). Then serve each guest their own piece. Instead of self serve style platters serve each child a variety of party food on their own plate or bowl. Ask each child to bring their own drink bottle, or label cups with names (or use different sticks/colours/shapes if they can’t read yet).
The games and activities
Instead of: activities where they are close together or involve sharing food, like musical chairs and or attempting eating a block of chocolate with a knife and fork, pass the parcel or blowing bubbles.
Consider: activities where they’re more spread out and don’t involve sharing food. For example, musical statues, a treasure hunt outside, pin the tail on the donkey or whacking a piñata, show and tell, a bubble machine or bubble wand.
Handwashing
Instead of: skipping this step
Consider: asking/helping children to wash their hands or using hand sanitiser:
- on arrival
- before and after eating
- when leaving.
Kindly ask any adults at the party to do the same.
More information
If we all take steps to keep our family and our friends safe and well, we can party (almost) like it’s 2019 again.