Kids' Parties – Safety First
With any party for kids, whether they are toddlers or teens, safety needs to be the first and foremost consideration. The most fun and exciting event in the world will turn sour fast and leave bitter memories if there are accidents or illness as a result of some oversight. While accidents do, unfortunately, sometimes happen, a little planning ahead can prevent most mishaps. From planning for the weather, to having appropriate kids party supplies, it's not difficult to be forearmed.
• Supervision
This goes without saying. While the requirements for supervision differ as children grow up, even teen parties should be carefully supervised. It's fair to say that, even if the party is an 18th, having a responsible, sober parent or "guardian" present is a good idea. This writer attended an 18th where the birthday boy landed badly jumping into a pool and required stitches. Fortunately, his parents were not imbibing on the night – and hence help was sought quickly and calmly.
• Food Safety
Not just allergy awareness (though older kids are more able to monitor what they eat), food safety is important in a party situation – especially in summer. Always ensure food is cooked properly and kept at a safe temperature. Keep hot food and cold foods separate and covered. Nobody wants to get food poisoning!
• Water Safety
Imperative for all ages. Drowning is not a risk only for toddlers and young swimmers. Always have at least one or two parents focussed on watching the kids in and around the pool. Have plenty of pool noodles and flotation devices. Lots of excited kids in a pool mean more likelihood of bumped heads and other injuries. Older teens may well be consuming alcohol – with or without your knowledge – and swimming and grog don't mix. Whatever the age group at the party – be pool safety aware.
• Sun Smart
Particularly important in the warmer months, sun safety is essential for all ages. If the party is outdoors, have plenty of shaded areas available. Provide sunscreen and make sure kids apply it. Serve plenty of water and other soft drinks to keep kids hydrated. And if it's a stinker of a day – bring the party inside. Even the garage can be a perfect party location to keep out of the heat.
• Glass-Free
Invest in some disposable paper or plastic kids party supplies – themed or otherwise. Not only does it mean no washing up for you, but risks like breakages and the attendant broken glass are eliminated. There are so many options available – so your sixteen year old does not need to settle for a Power Rangers themed party table!
• Consider Pets
It can be best for everyone to "un-invite" your pet to the party. Cats will usually run a mile (so lock puss in the laundry or somewhere safe and secure). Dogs are social and will no doubt want to be part of the fun. But small kids can be scared of dogs (especially overexcited ones), and parties for teens might become too overwhelming for the pooch pretty quickly. Send Fido to Grandma's, or lock him in the garage away from the excitement.
Parties are meant to be fun for all – follow these simple tips and your party is assured of being a success!
• Supervision
This goes without saying. While the requirements for supervision differ as children grow up, even teen parties should be carefully supervised. It's fair to say that, even if the party is an 18th, having a responsible, sober parent or "guardian" present is a good idea. This writer attended an 18th where the birthday boy landed badly jumping into a pool and required stitches. Fortunately, his parents were not imbibing on the night – and hence help was sought quickly and calmly.
• Food Safety
Not just allergy awareness (though older kids are more able to monitor what they eat), food safety is important in a party situation – especially in summer. Always ensure food is cooked properly and kept at a safe temperature. Keep hot food and cold foods separate and covered. Nobody wants to get food poisoning!
• Water Safety
Imperative for all ages. Drowning is not a risk only for toddlers and young swimmers. Always have at least one or two parents focussed on watching the kids in and around the pool. Have plenty of pool noodles and flotation devices. Lots of excited kids in a pool mean more likelihood of bumped heads and other injuries. Older teens may well be consuming alcohol – with or without your knowledge – and swimming and grog don't mix. Whatever the age group at the party – be pool safety aware.
• Sun Smart
Particularly important in the warmer months, sun safety is essential for all ages. If the party is outdoors, have plenty of shaded areas available. Provide sunscreen and make sure kids apply it. Serve plenty of water and other soft drinks to keep kids hydrated. And if it's a stinker of a day – bring the party inside. Even the garage can be a perfect party location to keep out of the heat.
• Glass-Free
Invest in some disposable paper or plastic kids party supplies – themed or otherwise. Not only does it mean no washing up for you, but risks like breakages and the attendant broken glass are eliminated. There are so many options available – so your sixteen year old does not need to settle for a Power Rangers themed party table!
• Consider Pets
It can be best for everyone to "un-invite" your pet to the party. Cats will usually run a mile (so lock puss in the laundry or somewhere safe and secure). Dogs are social and will no doubt want to be part of the fun. But small kids can be scared of dogs (especially overexcited ones), and parties for teens might become too overwhelming for the pooch pretty quickly. Send Fido to Grandma's, or lock him in the garage away from the excitement.
Parties are meant to be fun for all – follow these simple tips and your party is assured of being a success!
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