Do all kids love birthday parties?
November 5th, 2009
I have two daughters, one who is 18 months old and just likes any old party, whether it’s hers or not, just as long as there is music, lots of kids to run around with and a general buzz in the air. She still prefers the wrapping paper as opposed to the present inside it and, in fact, is as happy to receive an empty egg carton wrapped up as she would be receiving an expensive gift. As long as she can make a mess, she is content… (you might be able to see that in the photo…).
My three-year-old is a completely different kettle of fish; her own birthday party is the event of the year. She has been talking about her 4th birthday party ever since she turned 3, so that means this party has been planned for a whole 12 months, which is longer then people have to organize the Oscars.
She invites random people on the street to her party if they are nice to her. If she’s upset at me, I am told, “You are not invited to my party anymore!” (there is no point in me pointing out that without me there is not going to be any party). I am so used to people not making a big deal about their birthday and even trying to hide their age, that this birthday party obsession has taken me a bit by surprise!
Are birthday parties this important to all kids?? Or am I related to the youngest party animal in the world?
-Emilie
Entry Filed under: Babyccino Birthday, Parenting, Theme weeks
6 Comments Add your own
1. Courtney | November 5th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
That’s funny. I wonder if it’s possibly a girl thing? My boys aren’t at all obsessed with their birthdays. I mean, the oldest one only started talking about his birthday about a week beforehand, and even then I was more trying to psych HIM up and get him excited.
I love birthday parties!
xx
2. Aunty Ollie | November 6th, 2009 at 9:06 am
The birthday obsession lasts for YEARS! My 14 year old was so obsessed with the details of her party (there was no other topic of conversation) that I said we could only discuss it on a Sunday. I was joking. But she said OK. Happy days… She had the best day ever, so she said!
And my soon-to-be 4 year old boy is also obsessed. I told him his birthday is when it gets colder so he literally does a temperature check each day…
3. Imen McDonnell | November 6th, 2009 at 9:41 am
First of all, I love Babyccino..was introduced to it by Mummymaps 2 weeks ago and it’s fabulous! I can totally relate to your little boys party excitement…our son is the same and we are planning a fun “rockstar” themed 4th party in a week’s time, complete with cool ticketed invites (specialeventticketing.com) and backstage VIP passes. He has been asking about doing this since last year as well and inviting everyone he meets. I hope we aren’t going overboard!!!! But I say, why not? It will be fun no matter what and who cares what anyone else thinks. Best Wishes, Imen
4. Heidi | November 6th, 2009 at 10:13 am
Emilie – When I read your blog it could have been me writing this. My oldest will be four in December and we have been planning and inviting (even random) people for ages. Her wish list has been growing steadily, as each shopping trip usually results in at least one “Can I have this for my birthday”. I must say though that I really do enjoy her taking so much interest, I wonder whether this will change over the years
Best wishes
5. Joslyn | November 6th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
I personally remember as a kid being terrified of birthday parties for me. My mother would (lovingly!) throw these elaborate parties for me, and I would hide in the corner. I agree that it’s very much according to the child’s demeanor and no 2 children are alike. It’s just important that I think we remember they should set the tone for their own parties (or no party at all!).
Great post and keeps us parents thinking….
6. sonia | November 7th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Hi Emily , I am Sonia form Dublin and my princess 5 years old is exactly the same .
Her sixth birthday will be in June, but she already made the guest List and choosed the venue …….
But in a way it is very funny.
P.S. I reallly like your articles.
Sonia
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