Set a Party Schedule!
Party Schedule
Make sure and set a party schedule! It is really difficult to go to a party with young children when you have to wait for hours to get through the big moments. It really makes it miserable for the kids and especially the parents. If you are inviting youg children, a schedule is a MUST!
I went to a birthday party with my 1 year old and had to wait 3 hours for them to get to the cake. My little girl was a mess by that point which made me miserable! So definately keep all the big events (Food, Cake, Presents - in that order) within the first 1 1/2 hours-2 hours. The people who can and want to stay longer can. The ones with little kids will be appreciative!!
Sample Schedule:
0 - 15 min: First Arrivals and Hellos
15 min - 45 min: Games and Crafts
45 min - 1 hour 15 min: Eating and Cake
1 hour 15 min - ????: Gifts