Why Do We Stress Out Over Our Kids’ Birthday Parties?

September 19, 2019

In talking with a friend the other day, we were discussing our kids’ birthdays. My youngest is turning six next week and the ongoing debate is about whether to have a friend party or not.

We’ve done a joint friend party for our middle two before since their birthdays are so close to the holidays. It was a lot of fun, but stressful. I had 20 kids at my house for a game truck and they had a blast. Looking forward, I’m not sure if this is something I want to tackle again.

For my daughter, she likes having sleepovers or going someplace fun with a couple friends. I’m all about grabbing a couple friends and experiencing something cool. One year, I took her and a few friends to Build-A-Bear, then the following year, it was she and her BFF at The American Girl Doll store. We could then easily grab lunch and ice cream and made a day of it.

Knowing my kids, the big parties overwhelm them. Having a handful of friends go do something with them is much more manageable for everyone. Some years, we stick to celebrating birthdays with just the extended fam. And I love that. Minimal stress, one cake, quiet conversation and time to play with the presents they receive.

Where do you stand on kid parties?