1st birthday party - looking for opinions

We are having DDs 1st birthday party in our backyard.

I am inviting my mommy and me group - about 5 kids age 1. Plus a 15 month old.

Getting a clown in would be at least $200. I've gotten a handful of quotes.

For that price, I can get a lot of backyard toys. One Step Ahead has play tunnels and a collapsable ball pit. I've also got a slide and a swing.

Would it bother you to take your kid to a birthday party and there not be enterainment for them? What is your expectation?

It wouldn't bother me, but I figure I'd get more opinions.

TIA!

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

The toys are a great idea!!!!!

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

We didn't have entertainment (or favors ) for DD's first b-day party, and the kids still had a blast (we had very few kids, many of them older).

Just go with the toys that you'll use after the party too.

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

I think toys are the way to go. I don't really think the 1 year olds will "get" the clown or be entertained for any length of time by it. Also, some may be scared by it - I know that at the age of 35 I would be freaked by it But that's just me and clowns

Get the toys - plus they will last longer than the clown and your DD and her friends will enjoy them all through summer!!!

Message edited 4/24/2009 10:37:27 AM.

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

I hate clowns...LOL
we used Darlen Graham, shes a singer and everyone loved her...but if your not dead set on the clown, go with a toy...

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

At 1 the kids will not miss the clown. Many babies are afraid of clowns/characters so I think the toys are a much better idea. My only other thought would be one of those smaller inflatable jumpers, I think they run around $100.00 new but you could probably pick one up on craigslist or eBay for less.

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

don't you have a friend that can dress up as a clown and do it for free? and face paint?

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

I never expect to see characters or entertainment at birthday parties-it can be fun when they are there but I don't think they are necessary at all.

I would go for the toys-way more fun for that set.

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

IF you feel like you have to do something, do the toys.

But we didn't have entertainment at DS' first birthday, and we aren't having it at his second either

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

Posted by Marcie

Posted by CrankyPants

I never expect to see characters or entertainment at birthday parties-it can be fun when they are there but I don't think they are necessary at all.

I would go for the toys-way more fun for that set.

I totally agree

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

I don't think kids need an entertainer, they can entertain themselves.

I say go for the toys.

Re: 1st birthday party - looking for opinions

Definately go with the toys. That is what we did for DD's 1st birthday party. For the older kids (5-10) I had them create there own goody bags and they loved it. I just bought a bunch of stuff from the $1 section at Target and the Dollar Store, plus candy.