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By admin, May 15, 2008 4:01 pm

This is an area of hot debate for a lot of parents. Party Favors and Loot bags- should you have them or not?

There is no doubt that kids love them. They await the loot bag eagerly at the end of each party. It entertains them on the journey home, then maybe half an hour after, and then it’s usually forgotten! So, is this a waste of money- or an absolute party essential?

The choice is yours. Try not to be pressured into a decision by other parents.

If you decide to give out party favors, or bags, then build the cost into your budget. It all adds up- the cost of the bags, the gifts, candy and cake. The dollar store is a great resource for party bag items. Get a selection related to the party theme, or a bunch of items for boys and/or girls (to fit in with your guest list). Watch out for clearance bargains in your local stores, and on the internet. If you plan up front, and grab the bargains when you see them, you can save a small fortune. Save money, and incorporate the loot bags into a party game- get plain brown lunch bags, and give the kids marker pens, paints and crafts to decorate the bags with during the party. Pop a piece of the cake, maybe a balloon, and some candy in the bags as each child leaves. A photograph of the party guest with the birthday child, or of the party group, is also a great party favour.

Another alternative is to have a lucky dip instead of party bags. Get a selection of gifts- perhaps kids DVDs or books (again watch out for clearance bargains and special offers), wrap them in colourful paper, and place in a tub, or bag. Let each child pick a wrapped gift at the end of the party. This is especially good older kids.

Think creatively about your party favors. One idea that is wonderful for younger kids is a small plant pot (cheap from discount stores) and a pack of seeds. Simple, inexpensive, and kids really love it.

But try not to feel pressured. Do what feels right for you, and what fits your budget and the circumstances. I threw a party at Christmas and asked all the kids to bring a gift that was to go to an under-privileged child. We had a fun party, and at the end we sat around and discussed why it was important to help where we could. I was so proud of our kids reactions. They were not given party bags and they did not expect them. Instead they asked if we could do this every year.

About the Author
Lori has been planning events and parties for over 15 years. She’s organised and hosted everything from high profile celebratory events with over 400 guests, to home based family parties for her three children. Get the benefit of her experience and sign up for her Free Newsletter. For party ideas for all occasions take a look at http://www.find-party-ideas.com

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