One of the most commonly asked questions by parents planning their child's party is, "Should I have the party inside or outside?" Read this article for quick and helpful advice on whether to have the party indoors or outdoors.
Although it can be tempting to have the celebration outdoors, expert party planners recommend having kid's parties inside because it's easier to monitor behavior, ensure a safe environment and plan party logistics.
Monitoring children's behavior can be a challenge in any environment.
But if your child's party is outside, then you may have to deal with kids complaining about it being too sticky, too cold, or too hot.
And if the kids are unhappy, then there's a good chance the adults at the party won't be happy either.
Ensuring a safe environment can be challenging outdoors, as well.
Some circumstances you may have to deal with include looking out for strangers, making sure the kids don't wander off, and dealing with safety hazards such as sticks, stones and bee stings.
Just one small injury can take away from this special day and the time that you and your guests have to sit-back, relax and enjoy the party.
Finally, the unpredictability of weather can make planning party logistics more challenging.
If the birthday party is outside, then you may find yourself watching the weather channel and hoping for good weather in the days leading up to the party.
Bad weather may mean you have to postpone the party and disappoint your child and all of your guests.
If you have your child's party outside, then you may be setting yourself up for stressful situations that could have been avoided.
If you still want or need to have your child's birthday party outside, then prepare for some of the challenges that may arise by keeping these tips in mind.
For example, if it's going to be a hot day, then keep both the children and adults in good spirits by bringing a cooler stocked with cold refreshments and lots of ice.
Second, be prepared to deal with minor cuts and scrapes that happen over the course of the day.
Bring along some extra band-aides and keep them handy.
Third, avoid disappointment by having a plan in place in case of inclement weather.
If the weather is bad, then will you move inside? Or will you have a rain date? If the weather changes abruptly on the day of the party, then how will you notify your guests of the change in plans? And last, but not least, if you're planning on arranging an appearance by a professional children's entertainer, then consider having the show inside so that your child - and all of your friends and family - can focus on the show and have fun.
You can always move the party outside after the show.
Here's to making your child's party the most fun and special one yet!