If it's time to host your kid's birthday party and the thought of 15 screaming kids tearing through your house makes you cringe, don't worry! We'll guide you through The Simple Feast's version of a kids party that will keep the kids occupied and allow the adults some time to themselves!

Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Kid's Party

Select a Date - Decide which afternoon will work for you and your guests.  For little ones, the weekend closest to their birthday is usually best.  Choose your theme, and then send out invites 2 or 3 weeks ahead.  Be clear about what the activities will be so that no one misses out on the key event at the party!

Pick out a Theme - Try to pick a theme that will have a focused element of entertainment.  This will ensure the kids are entertained and occupied during the party, and allow some time for the adults to enjoy each other's company.  For example: pony rides, a bouncy tent, clowns, or a magician are all great ideas for entertainment.

Food - A buffet works best with kids - it also allows the adults the ability to choose what their child eats.  Stick with simple finger foods.  Most finger foods can be prepared ahead of time, and are easy to keep replenished.  And if you want to pre-buy some of the elements, those items will integrate nicely into your buffet.

The Birthday Cake - We realize this is the most important element to the party, and it's the one thing that many people stress over.  We will show you some creative solutions that will give you an alternative to slaving over a cake or to just resorting to buying one at your local bakery.

Decorations - Nothing says birthday party like balloons and streamers.  If your kids are old enough, they can even help decorate the house the morning of the event.  Rely on your theme to choose colors - or check out this kids friendly site for some great decorations!

Gift Bags - Kids often envy the birthday boy or girl's presents, so gift bags are a nice way for the other children to feel special and to take a little bit of the party home with them.  Keep the contents simple and in line with your party's theme. Giving the adults take-away bags of party food is also a good way to lessen that pile of leftovers on the buffet table!

With some easy planning and organization, you will become known as the mom who throws fabulously Simple Feasts!