What Is A “No-Gifts” Party for Kids? Should Your Kids’ Party in NJ Be Gift-Free?

There are all sorts of trends at kids’ birthday parties in New Jersey, ranging from cartoon character themes, to fun animal themes like puppies or baby sharks, to classics like princess theme birthday parties or dinosaur themed birthdays. Getting the invitation is almost as fun as seeing the part—but wait, does that say “no gifts”? Keep reading to find out more about no-gift parties and if you should consider holding one.

What is a “No-Gift” Birthday Party for Kids?

The name says it all—if a kids birthday party invite says “no gifts,” it really means “don’t bring a gift.” That doesn’t mean that you aren’t going to celebrate—in fact, with the sheer volume of stuff that most kids have at home already, it means you have time to celebrate more. Your child, and the birthday kid, will have more time to interact with fun character entertainers, play more party games, and enjoy more rides and excitement without having to take time out for gifts.

Why Do Parents Ask For No Gifts at Their Kids Birthday Party?

Parents might plan a no-gift birthday party for a variety of reasons. The top-cited reason is literally “too much stuff!” While the birthday kid might enjoy some of the presents, others will likely just end up in a plastic landfill. Those who practice strong environmental stewardism, or who reject capitalist culture, may not be as interested in gifts. In addition, those who have friends and families from different economic backgrounds may not want to put anyone “on the spot.” And finally… popular kids might be attending up to 30 birthday parties per year. Does anyone really want to buy that many presents?

Should You Go “No-Gift” When Planning A Birthday Party in New Jersey?

Having or not having gifts at your child’s birthday party is a very personal decision. Remember, you can always give gifts at home from family and the closest friends, but let the “rest of the class” have some rest. For younger kids, a “homemade gifts only” rule can be an adorable alternative—think of all the crafts, drawings, and other fun your kids could have! And remember, hosting the best kids birthday party in NJ is a gift in and of itself—one everyone gets to enjoy.

Whether you’re having gifts at your next kids’ birthday party or not, make sure to boost the rest of the entertainment! The team at Parties for Peanuts in Saddlebrook is ready to plan a unicorn themed birthday party, superhero birthday bash, or anything else that would delight your child!

September 5, 2023November 23, 2023

How To Plan A Sensory-Friendly Kid’s Birthday Party in Saddle Brook

Friendly Kid’s Birthday Party In Saddle Brook Nj

Are you planning an amazing birthday bash for a lucky kid in New Jersey? Our team of children’s entertainers and party planners travel all over NJ bringing excitement and entertainment, with everything from first birthday parties in Paramus, to back to school blasts in Bloomfield, to holiday parties in Newark. We bring as much fun and excitement as we can—but what can you do when the entertainment is too much for some of the guests? That’s where you need to think of sensory-friendly kid’s birthday party.

How Do Sensory Challenges Show Up at Kids’ Birthday Parties in NJ?

Sensory sensitivity is a term that refers to being excessively bothered or distressed by sensory input—things like bright lights, loud sounds, high-pitched noises, too much rain, too much activity… and so on. Children and adults with sensory challenges may have diagnosed health conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or a history of trauma, or may be sensitive to stimuli with certain medical conditions. Ever have a migraine where it feels like everything is “too loud” and “too bright”? This is sensory overload! Even if your little guests are excited to attend that dinosaur themed birthday party, the big “roars” and flashy decorations might be overwhelming. When kids can’t regulate their sensory needs, they are more likely to have meltdowns or tantrums, to withdraw from their favorite party games, or disrupt the professional character entertainers that you hired. Worst of all—they might not have fun!

Quiet Areas and Storytime Make Kids Birthday Parties Better

One of the best ways to build a kids birthday party that everyone will enjoy is to make some “spaces” for different types of play. Could you rent a big bouncy castle for outside, while making the inside of your party space a quiet area? Remember, quiet doesn’t have to mean “no fun!” Quiet activities like storytime from a professional princess, calming crafts like making homemade, themed fidget toys, or just a “cool down” room with drinks and soft chairs to relax on can help you avoid conflict.

Themed Ideas to Avoid and Include At Your Sensory-Friendly Birthday Party

Looking for a quick and dirty list of things to avoid at your next sensory-friendly birthday party? Loud “noisemakers,” popping balloons, screaming “surprise!” flashing lights, more than 5 people running around at the same time, video games, loud music, activities with blindfolds. What to include? A quiet space and a loud space, opportunities for movement like bounce houses and outdoor space, helpful parents, structured and planned activities, healthy snacks and beverages.

Do you know that one of your child’s guests has a hard time with sensory input? Call their parents and ask how to make the party fun for them—every child is different, and parents usually know their child better than anyone. After you’ve done some personalized brainstorming, call our team of children’s entertainers in Saddle Brook to plan the perfect party for all the kids in attendance.

August 7, 2023November 23, 2023

Should You Have Technology at Your Next Kids’ Birthday Party in New Jersey?

When planning a kids birthday party in New Jersey, you want to give the kids what they want. For some kids that might be a mermaid themed birthday party, an ice cream themed birthday party, a festival filled with dinosaurs or zoo animals, or so much more. But ask most kids today what they really want… screen time! Should you bring technology to your kid’s birthday party? Keep reading to see how to do it in a fun, reasonable and parent-approved manner.

Keep Age in Mind When Planning A Video-Game Themed Birthday Party

Step aside princesses and friendly animals—today’s kids are requesting their favorite video game characters stop by to visit their parties! Whether your child would rather stomp mushrooms like their favorite plumber, eat a block-shaped cake, or battle it out with friends, make sure your choices are age-appropriate. Violent, multi-player games are certainly popular with kids as young as elementary school, but not all kids are ready for this sort of play. Consider the ages of your guests and the recommended ages to play those games before theming a birthday party around it.

Offer Fun, Hands-On Alternatives at Your Child’s Birthday Party

Just because your child loves screens and technology doesn’t mean the fun has to stay confined to the device! Why not send your little adventurers through a themed obstacle course from NJ’s best children’s party planners, or delight them with fun, festive snacks? Adults usually think of birthday party snacks as cotton candy, hot dogs, or slushies, but what if you re-imagine these as elements from your kid’s favorite game or online platform? With a little creativity (and stylish labels!), you can transform any old party snack into an “epic powerup!”

Build-in Structure and Limits When Your Hire a Video Game Truck For A Party

Has your child come home raving about a birthday party with a video game truck? That’s right—when home gaming setups aren’t big enough for the whole party, the best children’s party organizers have you covered! Our video truck comes equipped with five HD screens, plus two outside the truck so everyone can watch the game—up to 28 people! We bring all the best gaming systems and the most popular games. Help your guests set good limits with screen time and plan for the video game to arrive partway through the party, or for it to “go home” partway so your guests can enjoy the rest of the birthday party.

Ready to start planning the best birthday party ever? NJ’s children’s entertainers at Parties for Peanuts are here and ready to help with screen parties, theme parties, screen-free parties, or any other children’s birthday party in NJ.

July 6, 2023July 10, 2023

Here’s What To Do When Someone Has a Meltdown At A Kids Birthday Party

When you plan a birthday party for kids in New Jersey, you hope everyone has the best time ever! But especially when you plan birthday parties for little kids, you should expect some tantrums, meltdowns, and tears. After all, even the best princess-themed party in NJ can’t please everyone all of the time! For those moments when a guest (or even the birthday kid) has a meltdown, here are some tips from our party planning company in NJ.

Head Off Conflict By Involving Everyone In Your Themed Birthday Party

At today’s birthday parties, the birthday girl isn’t the only one getting a gift! Many parents plan a small gift for all attendees to help kids feel better. You can make this a part of your theme, like providing everyone with a sparkly tiara and magic wand at a princess themed birthday party, or a toy magnifying glass and craft for a STEM-themed birthday party. Check with parents before offering up a delicious snow cone or chocolate fountain at your birthday party—those with allergies or food sensitivities don’t want to be left out!

Provide a Private Space at Your Next Birthday Party

Birthday parties in New Jersey happen in all sorts of places, from homes to parks and everywhere in-between. When planning your party, make sure to plan a private space for things like meltdowns, rest breaks, or parent interventions. Remember that little children really aren’t good at containing their emotions, but they do a lot better when they can collect themselves in private. As an alternative, find a way to grab the attention of the kiddos who are still having a good time and direct them away from the child who is struggling.

Manage the Party Environment With Structured Kids Birthday Activities

When kids are left alone too long, there are bound to be conflicts. Don’t wait for it to happen—manage the environment with a series of structured kids’ birthday activities. This not only prevents “kid drama,” but helps to ensure that there is always something fun to look forward to. Perhaps your superhero party starts with a costume parade for all the guests, then moves onto the inflatable obstacle course, then proceeds with cake and gifts… think the kids are getting bored? No way! Next up is the professional character actor to lead another superhero mission!

Filling your kids birthday party with fun events, games, and activities, as well as preparing for the meltdowns when they inevitably happen, helps everyone to have a better time. Plan for success at your child’s next birthday party when you hire the expert party planners at Parties for Peanuts!

June 6, 2023July 10, 2023

Hire NJ’s Best Children’s Party Planners for Your School’s Graduation or Summer Party

Party Planners For Your Summer Party In Nj

The children’s entertainers at Parties for Peanuts in NJ love birthday parties—and all the other parties! This summer, we are looking forward to a warm, fun season filled with graduation parties, summer parties, and of course more birthday parties! Keep reading to see what we can bring to your summer party in NJ.

Rent Big Toys and Inflatables For Your NJ Graduation Event

Go big for the end of the school year! Whether you’re planning a graduation event for big kids who’d rather take selfies than make crafts, hosting a “continuation” party for kindergarteners or fifth graders who are moving onto their next grade, or just celebrating summer vacation for your kids’ organization, you need the biggest entertainment at the end of the year. Rent inflatable obstacle courses, bounce houses, dunk tanks, and so much more for your graduation event or end-of-school year party!

Bring Special Snacks to Your Summer Birthday Parties

If you’re planning a summer party or summer birthday party, there’s no better time for themed snacks! Everyone loves cotton candy and snow cones, but they’re even better when they’re coordinated with your ocean themed party, circus themed party, or video game themed party!

Saddle Brook’s Best Entertainers Bring Character Guests To Your Party

For an amazing party, especially for young children, a character guest could be the best part of the event. Fortunately, the children’s entertainers at Parties for Peanuts know how to ham it up and bring your child’s favorite character to life! Would your princess themed birthday party be better with a real, live princess? Of course! Would a visit from a certain webbed superhero turn your summer bash into a celebrity sighting? It sure would! Our team has the most popular costumes and styles and loves to bring your child’s favorite pop culture characters to life! Celebration is a part of life, and what better time to celebrate than in the summer? Call Parties for Peanuts today to start planning your next summer birthday party in NJ.