Let’s face it. If you’re like most parents, your days are consumed with school commitments, playdates, snack times, and…well, whatever else you may be forgetting. It can get hectic. So, when you’re planning a kids party, it’s crucial to get prepared ahead of time. Keeping your party plans organized and timely will help to avoid any added stress to your already packed schedule.
That’s why we’ve compiled the best and most elaborate party planning checklists. Most of these start six weeks prior to the party, so let’s get started!
1. Birthday party planning 101
Keeping with her expected style, this kids party checklist from Martha Stewart is thorough, organized, and easy to follow. Not only does it offer an ideal timeline for a smooth process, it also gives detailed explanations and examples. Each component, including invitation details, optimal party times, simple tips for snacks, and kid-friendly entertainment, is broken down to make sure every activity is prepared for. The downloadable planner also encourages your child to participate in the process, which helps foster their sense of responsibility.
2. Child’s at-home birthday party checklist
This checklist from Real Simple is also laid out in a timeline fashion. You’re provided with very detailed instructions on a kids party, down to charging your camera, checking that the area is safeguarded for kids, and polite post party thank you cards. You can check off details and save this list online by creating a Real Simple account. That way, your list will be more readily available as a mobile option.
3. Complete kids party checklist
This party checklist from Cozi is straightforward and simple to follow. It doesn’t give as much detail or guidance as the lists above, but it does include the most important steps for a successful party. If you’re needing a checklist to act as more of a reminder, Cozi provides an incredibly useful app that can sync with your calendar for notifications and be shared with any helpers you’ve recruited for planning.
4. Birthday In A Box checklists and tips
Birthday in a box not only offers a party planning checklist, but it also provides tons of resources like a budget estimator tool, gift opening tips, theme ideas, and recipes. You can also download their puzzle and game printables which can cut your party supply costs considerably. This is an ideal guide for throwing a great party without breaking the bank.
5. Party planning and getting organized
Netmums offers checklists for multiple party scenarios. There are lists for first-time party planners, parties at home, parties hosted in rented spaces, and parties hosted at play centers. The downloadable checklists give great information for each stage of the planning process, and the site offers printable invitations and a directory of party suppliers for decorations.
By using one of these top five checklists, you’ll throw the party of the year and make it look easy!
Article author, Katie Trimble, is an Arts Management major and the B-Side Programming Director at Indiana University’s student radio station, WIUX. She is currently adding to her experience in the event industry by interning at the music and technology PR firm, Rock Paper Scissors.