DD is turning one (insert sentimental tear here). We are having a party for her on Sat. There will be 11 adults there, and 4 kids ranging fom 6 mos to 2 1/2 years.
My question: any ideas on how to keep things flowing? Most of the adults don't know one another, and all of the kids are a bit young to have "kid's activities". Of course there will be lots of toys to play with, food, cake etc. I just don't want it to be awkward and strained (I'm used to cocktail parties with a little liquor to grease the social wheels), but I don't want it to be all planned activities where I act like a demented cheerleader "OK EVERYONE! IT'S TIME TO PLAY MUSICAL CHAIRS!!" or something (does that make sense?)

Any ideas?

By Kaye on Wednesday, March 9, 2005 - 01:07 pm:

My thoughts are have an order of events, like cake then presents, or vice versa. Have lots of finger foods available and then keep it short.

By Cat on Wednesday, March 9, 2005 - 02:44 pm:

What about a big card the kids and adults can write a birthday message on, or a table cloth, then you can save it for her. You could just leave pens, crayons, markers, etc there and they can do it anytime during the party. You could also take polaroid pictures to put on it (card) to save.

By Frasersmama on Wednesday, March 9, 2005 - 07:30 pm:

Thanks Cat, great idea! Anyone else, seriously desperate here

By Tink on Wednesday, March 9, 2005 - 07:42 pm:

We passed around a scrapbook of the birthday child's first year. It gave everyone something to break the ice and start conversation flowing. I think the big card or tablecloth idea is a great one!

By Christylee on Wednesday, March 9, 2005 - 09:09 pm:

I had a journal at my baby shower and everyone wrote us congratulations and best wishes in it. I carried it over and each birthday I get it out, write the party information on it. I then write him a letter about the years events, milestones, and fun activities, THEN at the party I make sure every guest writes a little something to him. Those who have come every year look forward to writing in it, I enjoy reading it after the party AND it will be a great keepsake for him when he's older.

He just turned four and I will have to get a new journal for next years party.

By Bea on Thursday, March 10, 2005 - 01:13 am:

How about Mommy and Me type games that have the adults participating along with the children. An on the lap musical chairs?? Pin The Tail with the adult blindfolded and the children calling directions???