How do I Create Birthday Invitations for Kids?

A tailor-made invitation is the first step to a great party for your birthday girl or boy.

Your child's birthday party invitations generate instant excitement and anticipation and set the general tone for the big day. They do not need to be expensive, store-bought or computerized to be special. Individualize homemade party invitations to the specific birthday boy or girl. Create tailor-made invitations as a first step in your child's most memorable birthday party ever.

Theme

A party theme can be complex, like a carnival party, or simple, like a purple party.

Deciding on the party theme is the first crucial step in creating the invitation. Let your child choose the theme of her birthday party. If she cannot decide, give her some ideas. Have her make a list of her favorite things and narrow them down. Children take pride in helping plan their favorite day of the year. Do not push your ideal theme on your child.

Color

Show your child paint swatches if she cannot choose a color for the invitation.

Associate a specific color, or colors, with your child's theme. Another option is to choose your child's favorite color for the invitation and carry that same color over to the party decorations.

Paper or Paperless

Paperless invitations reduce paper waste.

Choose plain pieces of paper, any type from construction to card stock, in your party color. If you decide to go paperless, make sure you have all the current emails for the guests. You will easily find numerous websites that offer free email invitations. Each website walks you through the steps until you have completed your invitation.

Text

You can find invitation wording online if you need extra help.

Include your child's name and age at the top of the invitation. Be creative and always remember to try to fit in your theme as you compose the invitation: "Please come to Jack's 8th dog-gone birthday party" or "Roll on over to celebrate Gracie's 7th birthday at the skate park." You can use a simple poem or text. Include the day of the week as well as the date, time and location of the party. Include an RSVP date that allows you ample time to plan for food preparation and party favors. Use your email or telephone number for responses.

Shape

Print each invitation out and set aside. Print a picture of a shape, character or item that has to do with your party theme. Cut each piece of paper in the shape, using the picture as a template; you may need to enlarge the picture to fit around your text. Make sure you do not cut any of the text off as you transform the paper into your desired shape.

Personalize

Personalizing the envelope is the final touch.

Personalize each guest's name on the invitation envelope in accordance with the party theme. If it is a medieval party, write "Sir Luke Smith." If it is a princess party, write "Princess Katie Black." Have your child draw flowers on the envelope if it is a garden party.

References

• Family Fun: Invitations for Birthday Parties and Beyond
• Martha Stewart: Invitations that Pop