Think ‘Super’ Not ‘Super Sweet Sixteen’ Parties For Kids

Go on, admit it. You’ve been known to watch some horrific reality TV in your time, and MTV’s ‘My Super Sweet Sixteen’ really has got to take the biscuit. These wannabe prince and princesses prance around demanding everything, challenging everyone and basically, they do nothing more than glorified ‘stomp’ around like spoiled brats for the entire episode. Why? Because they the precious darlings are turning sixteen. Imagine their 18^th. Their 21^st. THEIR 30^TH.  Honestly, the thought most likely makes you shudder, because if these are the expectations? Well, we’re all doing it wrong. I suspect though, the majority of us have thankfully got our heads screwed on and while we’re more than happy to plan some treats and surprises for our kids’ birthdays, we’re not going to break our banks!

Whether your child is three or thirteen, or anything in between, the key is to show they’re loved. Yes, it can be satisfying to outdo the other mums on the playground (hey, you can show off without spending millions!), but as long as your child feels you’ve made an effort and you know in your heart of hearts you’ve done all you can, you’re a better mother than most of the parents on that god forsaken show!

So, how to go about it? Well, renting community halls worked for a lot of us, so there’s a start. If your child has a summer birthday and you’ve got a garden, you can even host everyone at home. The trick is to decorate everything perfectly. What’s in right now? Whether it’s a TV Show, movie or just a character, printing some cool pictures and theming the place up a bit won’t hurt. You can order some really cool decorations, party hats and everything else from EBay, and don’t forget balloons! For an extra special touch, you could even try a personalised helium balloon to take pride of place, like this one from Chuckle Monster.

Of course, when it comes to music, it really depends on the age of your kids, and how in touch you are with what’s cool. If they’re older than primary school age, chances are, they have some very strong opinions about this. So, you’ve got two choices. Do your research (the Radio 1 playlist might be a good start, depending on how appropriate the song are…) or get a DJ! That’s your entertainment sorted. If it’s a big birthday (for example, double figures), you could even think about getting something else – perhaps a bouncy castle, or taking a trip somewhere adventurous. But honestly, you don’t need to be too extravagant, but it really is up to you – and your budget.

 Now all that’s left to do is bake some cakes, pick up some snack packs of party food, stuff the party bags and invite everyone. Yeah, you really shouldn’t forget that last one…!

Disclaimer: This is a featured post

Leo Meets The Jungle

Just last month, I told you all about Leo's fascination with his view from the lounge window, and how he would love to be outside playing with his Aunt & Uncle. With the grass always being too wet for him to crawl on, I grabbed a chance for him on Sunday when the Sun was shining high in the sky and the grass seemed dry enough for Leo to give it his first test run - crawling style.


I took out a sheet in the hope we could both sit on it comfortably and also avoid any grass stains...Of course I should have known that this was inevitable and it was just moments after sitting down, that Leo crawled off into the grass. At full Leo speed.


He found all sorts on his travels of the garden, a football, slide, trike and line pegs, ...You name it. Leo located it. He swiftly inspected his new surroundings, the new playground and jungle that he could not wait to explore.


Grandad was out taking full advantage of the Sunny weather. As usual the slightest bit of sun and he has his shirt off and his hot pants on (except that they don't look hot!) I warn you now...In advance, just in-case he crops up in any photos this summer! The problem is when the Speedo's come out...I assure you, I will refrain from shooting any photos and make sure to cover Leo's eyes while shutting my own!


Grandad was enjoying guiding Leo down the slide and pushing him around on the trike, Leo was happily lapping up all the attention and obviously loving being outside, playing in the fresh air and sunshine.

Leo loved every moment. It was a taster of what we can expect this Summer, we will be spending a lot of our sunny days out in the garden or down the local park by the river. It is going to be so different this year having a baby on the move, compared to last year where we were hiding away from the heat with our newborn baby boy. I can see us paddling in the pool with Leo and making the most of every moment in the sun, with BBQ's, picnics, days out to the beach and just showing Leo all that is around him to enjoy. I know that this Summer...Is going to be the best yet.

Leo will be getting Christened in the next couple of months. I have held off, waiting for the sunshine to make an appearance. We are lucky enough to have a very generously sized garden, and my plan is to hire the biggest bouncy castle I can find (It can be done, I have done it!) and holding a big reception party at home for my gorgeous little Lion, with close friend's and family. It is sure to be one big shin ding!'


The thought is to plan it all for the bank holiday in May. The planning will be starting very soon, so we are now in the market for the perfect Christening outfit.


Luke and I turned 21 in August 2010, and we decided to hold a joint 21st in the comfort of the garden. It was decked out with fairy lights in the trees, Bamboo garden candles to light the way. We put up a Gazeebo to house all the drinks, and a paddling pool to keep the cans cool (A great idea, I know!). I located the biggest and beastiest bouncy castle. It filled the garden to the brim! All our guests thought it was amazing, and everyone enjoyed the lovely weather and the free drinks. When it got dark we let off Chinese Lanterns to mark our Birthday's and partied on into the night! I am very much looking forward to planning Leo's Christening, it really will be one to remember!


I hope you all enjoyed the lovely weather, and here's hoping that there is plenty more to come! Below are some of my 21st photos!

Laura xx