Kids' Backyard Birthday Party Ideas

The idea of letting a dozen sugar-spiked kids run free through your home is terrifying--at best. If you have a large backyard, corral birthday party guests to that area to keep them out of the house. This money and stress-saving option can feature any theme that suits your child's interests or preferences. Enlist the help of friends or family members to make your job easier. When the party is over and the guests have gone home, you can close the back door and relax in your still-spotless home.

Why Host At Home?

Parties at home sometimes require more work, since you will be pulling together the theme, but they can save money and let you personalize every party detail to your child. An indoor party requires you to childproof and clean your home; an outdoor party lets your home serve as the staging area, keeping the backyard ready for each step of the party from gifts to games to cake. It will also be safer for the children since the limited area helps you keep an eye on all the kids and eliminates strangers or other dangers.

How To Pull It Off

Use the natural ambiance of your backyard to pull together a personalized party for your child. Yards full of trees are perfect for fairy get-togethers or medieval fortresses. You can host tea parties or jousting matches in this area. Budding scientists can uncover the biology of the yard. Sports lovers will appreciate a soccer field or basketball court in the yard. If none of these themes work, you can always bring in a character theme with party kits available at party stores. Get creative! Let your kid help brainstorm!

Outdoor Parties for All Ages!

Backyard parties work for children of all ages. Infants and toddlers can waddle around a small area with a blanket full of toys for a simple party. Grade schoolers can be led through a series of games or obstacle courses. Teens can sit and gossip around a bonfire or fire pit.

Don't Forget Food!

In addition to whatever game or activity you choose for your party, you will need plates, cups and napkins. You may find it easy to bake some pasta casseroles or other favorites before hand or you can grill hot dogs and hamburgers on the spot. Pre-made food works best for younger kids whose patience is limited and curiosity can bring them too close to the grill. Some card tables out in the yard can help you organize your games, gifts, favors for the guests and the food.

How Others Can Help

Don't turn down those offers of help. When someone offers a hand, take it gladly as this will free you to enjoy the party yourself a bit. Ask a friend or family member to dress up like a lead character in your theme, such as fairies or Robin Hood. Someone may be willing to bake a cake or bring some snacks or drinks. Assign some of the younger kids to your helpers, so you can relax, knowing they are safe.