Your child's first birthday - now it's time for a party! We've gathered everything you need to plan a one-year-old party. Everything from suitable food to serve at a children's party, gift tips and how to think about sugar and sweets.
How many people should you invite?
Sure, a big children's party can be tempting, but when the child is only one year old, it may be easier to have a smaller event. Just the family or a few close friends. If you're going to invite a lot of people, it's a good idea to start planning well in advance.
Don't forget the baby's routines
When does your child sleep? Plan your children's party based on when your child is most alert. It is often forgotten that your child may be taking their longest nap right when you have planned for the children's party to start.
Choose a suitable theme
By setting a theme for the children's party, it can be easier to see decorations, food and activities in front of you. Some frameworks to relate to, for example. It doesn't have to be anything advanced. Maybe your child likes an animal especially? Perfect - sea theme!
Time for cake
The cake is the main character of the party (after the baby, of course). Maybe it's the baby's first cake? Try making a smaller cake for the baby to explore - it can be a fun time. Then make or buy a larger cake for the guests to enjoy.
The ultimate cake for a one-year-old
Try a naturally sweetened cake for the little ones. But we promise that the adults will want one – or more – pieces too.
Food at the children's party
Tips for food and snacks for children's parties. You can find more recipes in our recipe bank.
What does the expert say about sugar at the one-year-old party?
A common question that may come up when planning a children's party is whether to have sweets and baked goods sweetened with sugar. Our founder and nutritionist shares her thoughts:
For a one-year-old, you can hold back on the sugar. There are lots of goodies to serve on the coffee table that don't have to be sweetened with sugar. Fruit skewers, muffins sweetened with dates, refreshing smoothies or homemade ice cream. Even food like this will be seen by the child as treats and give a festive feeling. Good for adults too!
When it comes to parties for older children, I think you can still be aware of the sweet treats, without completely limiting them. Fruit in fun shapes, stickers or soap bubbles? But don't make sugar a ban. Instead, focus on the child enjoying the party and having coffee with their friends and family.
"It's the recurring sugar, the sugar you eat every day that can have an impact on your health. Eating a piece of candy at a party is nothing to get hung up on."
It is often the shared experience that is most important to children, rather than exactly what is served.
Creating a positive atmosphere, where the children can enjoy the food and socialize with each other, is what will make the party memorable and fun for everyone involved.
Reader question: Are children getting high on sugar?
Everyone has probably seen children at a party, among balloons, streamers, coffee tables and piles of packages. As a parent, the thought can only stress you out. But is it the sugar that makes children hyperactive? There is actually no scientific evidence for this, but researchers believe that it is more about the situation and excited and happy children.
Gift ideas for the one-year-old
Reasonable expectations
Last but not least: see the party for what it is, it can be a little chaotic - but at the same time absolutely wonderful. You are celebrating your child's first birthday and that you have been their parent for a year. Lower the bar and focus on what is important - the community!
/Elin Oresten
Lic. nutritionist and founder of Knatteplock.
