Step five: The day before

• Clean party area. Put away items that are dangerous or distracting to the main events.
• Bake or pick up cake.
• If ordering food, it's a good idea to call and organize the day before.
• If necessary, confirm any entertainers or helpers.
• Sit with your child to discuss his or her expectations for the party.
• For younger children, if you're going to open gifts during the party, you may want to practice opening gifts and saying, "Thank you."

Notes: ____________________________________________

Step six: 4- 5 hours ahead

• Set table and decorate.
• Put candles in cake and place matches nearby.
• Get balloons filled.
• Tie some balloons to the mailbox or front porch so people can identify the party spot easily.
• Place crafts and prizes near the activity locations.
• Locate paper and pencil for recording gifts (and thank-you's).

Notes: ____________________________________________

Step seven: 1-2 hours ahead

• Consider putting any pets in an area away from the guests.
• Get birthday child and siblings dressed.
• Set up food and let your child help as much as possible.
• Set up first activity.

Notes: ____________________________________________

Have a great party!