Kid's Birthday Parties: What Happened to Having a Birthday Party at Home? by Jen Imbaro

When I was a kid, it was rare that birthday parties weren't at home. Yes, there were clowns or magicians. Once in a while, we went to a roller rink. But the norm was not the birthday party factory, with ubiquitous indoor picnic table where all the kids seem to know exactly what to do, and the parents stand awkwardly around the perimeter wondering if they get cake, too.

I do not mean to criticize parents who go this route. These places are awesome! They setup, cleanup, manage the kids, pack up the gifts, etc. What's not to love? I'm really honestly wondering how and when this became the societal norm? And do people think I'm weird that I love to have my kid's party in my own home?

Is it that we feel pressure to invite ALL the kids from class, but we don't have room in our homes? Is it that kids are not dropped off at parties anymore until they are much older, so now we need space for parents, too? Are we setting our kids' expectations for entertainment too high? I'm curious. tell me why?

Planning my own parties was one of the best things I did with my mom. I've already passed this love along to my own son and plan to continue as long as he lets me, at home.

Where do you have your kid's birthday parties?