BIRTHDAY IDEAS FOR 5-6 YEAR OLDS
Let them be your party planner in-training. Your little one is finally old enough to help plan the festivities—which can be a party in itself, so be sure to get their opinion. Check out our suggestions for birthday party themes, entertainment and more perfect for five-and-six-year-olds.
THE FEARLESS FIVES
The focus is on the five-year-olds, of course. Whether they've been obsessed with something for a week or a few months, take it seriously and incorporate it into their celebration.
Theme & decorations
Look to their favorite book or movie for inspiration—you know, the one they want to read or watch again and again. Bring the characters to life through decorations—try to replicate the setting, time period and more. If it's a popular book or film, then a party store may have plates, cups and napkins featuring their beloved characters.
birthday outfits
Since it's their big day, let them dress to impress! Whether they prefer to dress up as their favorite character or simply go as themselves, let it be their choice. Use the invitations to encourage guests to wear casual clothes or full-blown costumes.
entertaining ideas
These kiddos are ready to play games that can help them learn essential skills—think the Hokey Pokey (it's great practice to help them learn their left from the right) or Simon Says (following simple directions has never been more fun!). Incorporate your theme into the entertainment by playing appropriate music or a movie soundtrack.
THE SUPER SIXES
When your child turns six years old, the guest list becomes even bigger—they want all their favorite friends there. If you want to venture outside of the home this year, age six is a good age to start a new tradition.
theme & decorations
Encourage all your guests to embrace their inner artist with an art-themed party! You can decorate with every color of the rainbow using traditional party supplies including balloons, a piñata and streamers. You can even create a backdrop and props for pictures.
birthday outfits
The birthday girl or boy should wear something they love, but also that they don't mind getting a little messy. You can pick up aprons to help protect all your guests' clothing.
entertaining ideas
Entertaining can be child's play if you have the right ideas. Set up different art stations and let kids choose the one they want to visit. You can have a station where they personlize a T-shirt or mug, paint canvases or a mural, and more. Board games will be a big hit, too.
party tips
Introduce gift opening during the party when your children enter this age group; younger children may not understand birthday presents are reserved for the birthday girl or boy.