Happy Birthday, Baby!

Celebrating a Little One's Big Day

By
Relationship Advice Expert April Masini

Q: Dear April Masini,

My first child is about to turn one, and I'm not sure what the appropriate way to celebrate is. I know everyone wants to get together and have a party, but it seems silly, since she obviously won't remember or know what's going on. What are the rules?

Sincerely,

Baby's Momma 

A:

Dear Baby's Momma,

A good rule of thumb for new parents throwing birthday parties is to invite one friend for every year your child is. For instance, invite one friend for your child's first birthday party; two friends for his or her second birthday party; three friends for his or her third birthday party, etc.

This keeps the child from being overwhelmed and cranky. It also keeps the value on the celebration rather than the party-throwing itself. Too many parents don't plan or think ahead, and they go over the top with their child's parties, only to find themselves trying to outdo themselves (or each other) at the next year's birthday party. The parties become about the party throwing and gifts instead of the child's new age.

April Masini -- nicknamed "the new millennium's Dear Abby" by the media, is author of the best-selling books Date Out Of Your League and Think & Date Like A Man, the two (just released) step-by-step dating and relationship manuals, Ideas for a Fun Date and Romantic Date Ideas, and the critically acclaimed dating and relationship online magazine www.AskApril.com.

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