Alternative to 4th birthday party?

[Moomin]

We usually throw a big party for dd's birthday - bouncy castle in garden, lots of friends round, etc. This year, though I'll be 8m pg and we'll have got back off holiday the saturday before and I've got spd so am quite immobile. I thought we'd just throw the party regardless and rope some friends in to help with food and stuff but it's all seeming a bit daunting now.

What we might do is have a Christmas party instead or something (I love parties ) but wondered about alternative treats for dd's b'day - any ideas? Her b'day is 10th Sept btw.

[PeachyClair]

Could you do a trip bowling for her and a few friends? Largely sit down activity for you then as long as there's one adult to help!

Otherwise maybe a trip to a family restaurant? Simple, but my kids love that sort of thing. We did that for DS's third birthday, had family there, he loved it and all the attention.

Otherwise- cinema. No running there!!

[iota]

how about an organised party at a soft play or farm or something similar - I always do thse as they don't need much parental input as the activity, food and part bags are included

[Moomin]

thanks for suggestions so far. Keep 'em coming.... please

[nooka]

We took dd and a friend to the ballet last year. Unfortunately she had to wait 'til Christmas (she's a September baby too) as there wasn't much on that was age appropriate, but she didn't seem to mind, and she loved it (we saw the Nutcracker).

[Skribble]

Restruant seems a good idea, our local Pizza Hut always makes a fuss of kids and will bring out cake etc.

Fire engine limo to take you there.

Some of the big cinemas have party rooms.

Could still do the home one but get friends and family to help. Order buffet trays from supermarket and hire entertainer. Or give adult helpers specfic jobs for the day. Their are companies that will bring in food, party bags and organise games and prizes.

You may find that softplay, zoo, cimema etc will do cheaper packages with less clearing up for you.

[Skribble]

Their is also a girls accesories shop that does parties in shop. They get all dressed up in girly stuff and get pictures etc, could work out pricy and I would worry about child wandering off, not secure environment.

[ScummyMummy]

Nandos with polaroid cameras worked super brilliantly for my kids' 6th birthday party.

[bambi06]

pottery party in a ceramics cafe

[Moomin]

Pottery party is great idea. We have one in our town so have booked it up! Price includes painting of a plate/bowl/mug, getting it fired and use of party room in the back for food (which we provide). Will end up costing as much as party would have done but much less hassle. Dh has even suggested ordering pizzas instead of us providing food. Thanks for the suggestions (Will put Nutcracker on ice as well - great for another time!)