Kids' birthday party checklist
Pick a theme and a 2-hour window, invite 2–3 weeks ahead with an RSVP link, ask parents about allergies, plan cake plus one or two activities, and confirm headcount a few days before; a parent or guardian can plan it with Get Gatsby.
Start your birthday party plan
Get Gatsby is for adults 18+, so a parent or guardian plans the party.
Checklist
- Pick a date, a 2-hour window and a theme your child loves
- Set a rough budget
- Choose the place: home, park or a venue
- Make the guest list with your child
- Send invites to parents with an RSVP link
- Ask about food allergies and whether parents will stay
- Plan cake or cupcakes and simple food
- Plan one or two activities and a backup for bad weather
- Plates, napkins, candles, lighter, trash bags
- Favors or a small take-home (optional)
- Confirm headcount a few days before
- Send a reminder with pickup time
Timeline (general guidance)
- 3–4 weeks out: Date, place, theme, budget, guest list. Book a venue if you're using one.
- 2–3 weeks out: Send invites with an RSVP link. Ask about allergies.
- 1 week out: Chase RSVPs. Order the cake. Buy supplies.
- 1–2 days out: Confirm headcount, prep food, send a reminder.
- Day of: Set up 30–60 minutes early.
Sample 2-hour schedule
- 0:00–0:20 Arrivals and a free-play activity
- 0:20–0:50 Main activity or game
- 0:50–1:20 Food
- 1:20–1:40 Cake and singing
- 1:40–2:00 Gifts or free play, then pickup
Safety and allergies (general guidance)
- Ask parents about allergies on the invite and label foods.
- Keep emergency contacts for each child.
- Plan enough adults to supervise, especially near water or busy parks.
Plan it with Get Gatsby
Parents and guardians can use Get Gatsby to build the party plan with a budget, ideas, guest list, invites, RSVP links (+1s included), reminders and tasks. Free for everyone, unlimited guests, no account to start.
Budgets are estimates only.
Timelines, amounts and tips on this page are general guidance, not sourced facts. Adjust them for your crowd.
FAQ
How long should a kids' birthday party be?
As general guidance, about 2 hours works well for most young kids.
When should I send kids' birthday invitations?
About 2 to 3 weeks before the party, with an RSVP link so parents can reply quickly.
How do I handle food allergies at a kids' party?
Ask parents about allergies when they RSVP, label the food, and keep an allergy-friendly option on hand.
Can kids use Get Gatsby?
Get Gatsby is for adults 18+. A parent or guardian can plan the party for free.
Last updated
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