MAIN Home Life Party Ideas 5-Year-Old Birthday Party Ideas

They're old enough now to pick their own party theme, or help with the planning and homemade decorations.

They may even suggest favorite kids party venues such as a local restaurant or recreation center.

Happy Birthday, Big 5-Year Old!

At this age, you may want to avoid the temptation to compete with the neighbors for the most elaborate birthday party on the block. Kids only remember the activities and fun they had a party, and with all the excitement usually they don't give a hoot about the food or decorations - as long as there's plenty of birthday cake!

By 5, party fun may include more competitive party games, structured activities or group fun.

Also at this age, it's time to consider inviting classmates over to join in the fun. And, if you're a first-time parent of a 5-year-old you will also want to quickly take a course in school class party etiquette to avoid any hurt feelings (or disgruntled parents!) on party day.

Around the Web, check out other ideas for happy 5-year old party fun, with tips, how-to's and suggestions for invitations & decorations, games, activities, party treats and favors...

More about 5-year-old birthday party ideas around the Web:

Birthday Party Ideas for 5 - 7 year olds - Parents join in at this archived message board with ideas for age-appropriate parties, activity ideas and advice on food, games, and favors.

Best Party Ideas for a Five-Year-Old's Birthday - PBS Parents has some fun, unusual ideas plus scroll down for more from visitor comments.

Games For 5 Year Olds - The perfect addition to a birthday party, with instructions for water balloon games, relays races, games with prizes, and more.

Birthday-party performance anxiety - Help wanted from a soon-to-be-expecting mom for her son's upcoming 5th birthday party. Read replies from other moms - ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous - and the pros and cons of simple vs. extravagant.

Kids Birthday Party Ideas - Visitor submitted party ideas, some with instructions for do-it-yourself decorations.