1st Birthday Party Experiences

[NewbieMama2024]

My son is 1 in July and we have decided to rent out the small village hall & rent some soft play for him and approx 12ish other children of ranging ages.

We don't want to go overkill, as we know he won't remember it, but just want to celebrate the occasion.

From those of you who have hosted a 1st birthday party, or those who have attended... what is expected?!?

We hired the local sports centre hall and they provided a small bouncy castle and a few soft play items and balls and toys and we had about 20 kids including a couple of older cousins. The age range of kids was 0 - 9 with most being toddler age. Did a simple buffet and of course birthday cake given out at the end. We kept it short, about 1.5 hours if I remember correctly.

No need to go overboard and don't worry too much. A few things for them to play with and some drinks and snacks and they will be happy. We did jugs of squash and also a jug of water as some parents didn't want their child having squash. Hope he has a lovely party!

My DC recently turned 1.

I'm very glad I didn't try to entertain a load of other people's kids. I invited close family and if I'd had more space would have invited some of the friends who helped us through the first year of parenthood. DC slept through half of it and spent the rest of the time being thoroughly spoilt.

Or just gone somewhere nice with DP and the birthday boy.

We did a joint christening / 1st birthday party.