This morning Milla had her first experience of a children’s birthday party. She was well occupied with many big and bright things to feast her eyes on: balloons, children running and screaming, a gigantic blow-up slide, grotty ball pit and toys galore.
All I could see as I scanned the room were dollar signs.
It made me think about my own parties growing up as a child and how the simple things were enough: a few friends over to eat disgusting party food, a couple of traditional party games, the home made cake that I was allowed to choose (from mum’s old recipe book that I’m sure every other baby boomer mother would have a copy of), dancing, dress ups, and lots of laughter.
My niece had a party the week before and my sister hired a jumping castle, a fairy princess to run the day, and bought the biggest cake I had ever seen – a castle with a princess hanging out of the tallest tower. Milla did not attend this one as I was entrusted with the duty of face painting and balloon making – I was not to be distracted.
As Milla’s first birthday approaches I am beginning to wonder if I can break this expensive, over-the-top party trend. Can I show my children that the simple things are just as fun – or am I fighting a losing battle?

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