Yesterday, I was talking about making your child’s birthday party green. Even if it is months away, it’s never too soon to start planning. Here are some more tips for a green birthday party:
Decorations
The one good thing about our son’s birthday party at this bowling alley this year is it was in the party room, so most of the decorations have been used time and time again by the bowling alley. Consider recycling decorations from year to year or at least look for those made of recycled material.
Just Say No to Goody Bags
Oh, this one seems to go against my very nature. I love (and feel obligated to provide) goody bags. Most bags are made of plastic and filled with cheap toys. You can cut the goody bags out completely. But, if you feel obligated to send something home with each child, come up with some craft such as Popsicle photo frames. If you still want to do a goody bag, use paper bags and let your little birthday princess or prince decorate each one. Make your own gifts for the bag like cookies or purchase small packets of flower seeds for the kids to take home and plant.
Wrapping Paper
This is an excellent time to recycle gifts bags you previously received. I mean, does your kid really pay attention to the bag or wrapping? Mine doesn’t – it is just a deterrent between him and his present. If you don’t have any leftover gift bags, I hate to sound like a broken record, but look for recyclable gift wrap.
Gifts
Ah, this is a big one. I’ve blogged before about raising socially conscious children. While no kid wants a birthday party sans toys, consider getting gifts for them, but ask the attendees to make a donation to a local charity in lieu of a gift. If family asks what to get your child, give them suggestions such as a day at the park with grandpa or lunch with his or her favorite aunt.
Trash
Be sure to provide recycling bins that are labeled, so guests can help you recycle items.