Will your "So-Big" be three years old his next birthday? What fun to give him his first birthday party! He'll talk about it days beforehand and play party for many days after. That is, if he has enjoyed his first party. And he is sure to if you plan it properly.



Parties for these small fry need not, and should not be elaborate affairs that cost a lot of money. His guests should be a small group of his own friends not limited to the children of your friends. And it should be carefully planned to avoid any youngster upsets the following day.

In the first place, nothing upsets the schedules of small children more than party refreshments in the late afternoon. An early supper solves the refreshment problem. And their mothers will be grateful indeed because on arriving home the tired children can all be popped into bed immediately and the family dine undisturbed.

From three to five o'clock are the best party hours for small children. Three o'clock doesn't interfere with nap time, thus allowing each child his undisturbed rest and putting him in good spirits for the party. Since parties for children under six years of age should never last more than two hours each, small guests will have abundant time for play and will be ready for home by five o'clock.

If because of transportation difficulties mothers must be included, ask them to bring their darning. They should have a separate place in which to visit so they may not be annoyed by the youngsters' activities nor be tempted to interrupt the children's play.

Party entertainment for these little kiddies must be quite different from that of older children. These small fry do not visit like adults, therefore something must be prepared ahead of time to occupy each guest as soon as he arrives.

For this very special party, whenever it is possible, clear a room of big pieces of furniture. In place of the grownups' dining table substitute a long, low children's table. Such a table and accompanying chairs can be borrowed from a nearby Sunday school or library room. This improvised playroom will delight even the shyest child. If a few small cars or a doll or two are out on the table to interest the early arrivals, a trying moment of the first party will be bridged.

As soon as all the little tousle-heads have arrived, be ready to start the program of games. By all means, and this is so important, have all activities for the afternoon planned with not the slightest detail left to chance.

Enough space for kiddies' activity, delicious refreshment and an interesting game will delight even the shyest child. All these must be arranged properly before the party begins.