How to Prepare Simple Goody Bags for Your Child's Birthday Party

If you melt down all of the plastic trinkets that your kids have received as party favors, you could probably start your own Tupperware business. Do yourself a favor when it comes to party favors, and break the mold without breaking the bank.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Will vary

1. Keep in mind that less is more. Consider buying one or two nice items that will get used, rather than many small items that will likely end up broken and/or in the garbage. For example, a colorful hula hoop adorned with curling ribbons will make a big impression, will be something that will get used, and will usually cost less than $5 per child.

2. Consider the theme of your child's party. If she's having a "pop star" party, you could purchase a variety of inexpensive posters (Hannah Montana, High School Musical, etc.) for guests to choose from. If your daughter is having a beach party, you could send the children home with beach towels or beach balls.

3. You can also choose to have the children make a project that they can take home as their party favor. For example, if your child is having a pajama party, you can purchase inexpensive oversized t-shirts and have the children decorate them at the party.

Tips & Warnings

• Brainstorm with your child, so that she is included in the process of determining what her goody bags/party favors will consist of.
• Give some thought to the presentation of your party favors. For instance, if you're giving the children bubble bath, you could wrap each container in clear cellophane, tie them with colorful ribbons, and then tie a gauze spa sponge around the top.
• Have your child help with the assembly of the goody bags. For example, she can write out or decorate name tags that can be attached to each favor. You can also attach small thank you notes to each goody bag.
• Plan ahead, if possible. If you have enough time, you will be able to keep an eye out for sales and/or search online, rather than scrambling at the last minute.
• Avoid candy that contains nut products, since this is becoming a more prevalent allergy in children.
• If you will be giving goody bags to young children, remember to watch out for things that could be choking hazards.
• Don't feel that you have to "compete" with what other people give as party favors. Children are happy to receive something at the end of the party, regardless of what it is.

Resources

• For fun birthday parties in Connecticut, click here!
• Funny Stories

[veryirie]

on 4/1/2009 All excellent ideas for simple goody bags and favors for a childs birthday party. Well done!

[LilacGirl]

on 10/7/2008 Such great party ideas.