Birthdays + Parties

Three young women are swapping items at a swap party

Birthdays + Parties

How to Host a Swap Party

Swap parties turn unwanted items into treasure

By: Sharon Mead | Nov 17, 2023

Relax by the fire with a warm alcohol free drink during Sober October

Food

Sober October Sips: Mocktail Recipes for a Refreshing and Alcohol-Free Month

Pour yourself a refreshing mocktail and enjoy alcohol-free relaxation

By: Kari Hanson | Oct 04, 2023

Holidays

10 Halloween Crafts and Activities for Kids

Try these ideas for a spooktacular (and crafty) holiday

By: ParentMap Editors | Sep 28, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Have You Heard of 'Fiver' Parties?

Bonus: No more scrambling to buy the perfect party gift

By: Vicky McDonald | Sep 16, 2023

Frozen bananas covered in chocolate and sprinkles is a simple birthday party snack to make

Birthdays + Parties

13 Easy and Awesome Birthday Party Snacks and Treats

Clever party treats for kids — bonus: they're low-effort, too

By: Jackie Freeman | Jul 21, 2023

Girl running through the sprinkler, water play activity for summer

Crafts + DIY

10 Best DIY Water-Play Ideas

DIY sprinklers, ice excavation, super sponge balls and more

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jul 18, 2023

Kids working together to make a birthday party craft idea

Birthdays + Parties

10 Crafty Birthday Activities That Double as Party Favors

Adorable DIY arts and crafts they’ll want to keep

By: Shar Petit | Jul 12, 2023

Young girl holding a stack of packages at a birthday party in a park, an easy outdoor birthday party idea for kids

Birthdays + Parties

Unforgettable Spots for Outdoor Birthday Parties in Puget Sound

Pony rides, zip lines, kayaking and more fresh-air party fun

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jul 11, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

6 Tips for Throwing an Awesome Birthday Party for Your Introverted Kid

Help shy or crowd-averse kids enjoy their special day

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Mar 24, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Goody Bag Ideas That Don’t Completely Suck

Ditch the waste and keep the fun with these creative ideas

By: JiaYing Grygiel | Mar 21, 2023

Happy kids wearing party hats at a birthday party

Ages 3 - 5

5 Birthday Party Etiquette Tips All Parents Should Know

How to avoid common party-planning pitfalls and throw a fun children's event

By: Malia Jacobson | Mar 17, 2023

Three young children at a birthday party smiling and wearing party hats

Family Management

7 Birthday Party Tips for Kids With Autism or Sensory Processing Disorder

How to host an awesome birthday party for a child with autism or sensory challenges

By: Autism Parenting Magazine | Mar 17, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Host a Less Wasteful Birthday Party With These Tips

Plus, four eco-friendly birthday themes they’ll love

By: Allison Holm | Mar 17, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Best Birthday Party Venues for Older Kids and Tweens Around Seattle

Zip tours, glass-blowing, trapeze arts and more party ideas

By: Kerry Johnson | Mar 17, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Giveaway: Win a Birthday Party at Kraken Community Iceplex

Enter for your chance to host your child’s birthday at the official practice facility of the Seattle Kraken

By: | Mar 02, 2023

Kids at a birthday party with hats and party blowers

Birthdays + Parties

Best Indoor Birthday Party Venues Around Seattle for Little Kids

From creative sessions to action-packed adventures, these 12 great party places offer fun-filled bashes to celebrate your little one’s big day in a big way

By: Kate Missine | Feb 27, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

7 Fantastic Fortnite Birthday Party Ideas

V-Buck Cookies, Campfire Cake and Chug Jugs are the perfect fuel for a Fortnite party

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jan 17, 2023

Birthdays + Parties

Catch a Perfect Pokémon Party With These Ideas

Fun ideas for Poké crafts, treats and games

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jan 09, 2023

Chinese New Year: The Year of the Rabbit

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac for Kids and Parents

Expecting a bundle of joy in 2023? Read all about the Chinese zodiac sign of the Rabbit

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 30, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Rabbit Child

The angelic Rabbit child is one of those miraculous tots who can sit quietly in restaurants with adults and occupy herself with books and toys for hours on end.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 08, 2022

kids play Halloween party games at a party

Holidays

Inexpensive Indoor and Outdoor Halloween Party Games for Kids

Fast, creepy, cheap and easy ideas

By: Diana Cherry | Oct 12, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Best Rocket Toys for Hours of Science-y Fun

By: Rebecca Hastings | Aug 30, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

5 Unusual Party Games That Your Kids Will Love

Awesome activities to make that birthday party memorable

By: Vicky McDonald | Aug 29, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

5 Quick Family Dinners Made With Trader Joe’s Products

Need a quick dinner? Try these simple and satisfying family meals

By: Kate Hagan Gallup | Aug 11, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Cheap Indoor and Outdoor Party Games for Kids

Here are some great ways to entertain (and wear out) your little partygoers!

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Apr 04, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

How to Plan a Magical ‘Encanto’ Birthday Party

Party décor, treats, activities and more

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Mar 24, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Sweet Fairy-Tale Birthday Party Ideas

Throw your little princess or prince a magical birthday party

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 15, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Tiger Child

Charismatic and bright, he’ll talk an ear off, sharing his many schemes and dreams with his captive audience of the moment.

By: Patty Lindley | Jan 31, 2022

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Dragon Child

Incandescent, independent, and resilient, the Dragon child will never fall prey to a foe.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Rat Child

These little beings are natural-born charmers!

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Dog Child

Dog children are like mini adults, capable of independently shouldering responsibility efficiently at an early age and completely worthy of trust.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Sheep Child

This child requires an abundance of patient solicitude and TLC to weather the emotional experiences of growing up.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Horse Child

Early to talk and walk, the Horse child functions at high mental and physical acceleration.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Snake Child

Snakes make sage and fair-minded leaders, and you will notice how other children naturally look up to your Snake child.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Ox Child

The Ox possesses the stamina, impressive self-confidence, and willpower to go far in life.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Pig Child

A generous dispenser of hugs, kisses, and bottomless faith, your little Pig is an absolute treasure.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Image of a stamp featuring a Chinese depiction of the Year of the Rooster

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Rooster Child

Learn more about your Rooster child

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Chinese Zodiac: The Monkey Child

You won’t find a more enchanting and quick-witted tot in the zodiac than the clever and oh-so-curious Monkey.

By: Patty Lindley | Dec 29, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

10 Goody Bag Ideas for Busy Parents

Cheap and easy goody bag gift ideas that kids will love

By: Emily Westbrooks | Nov 03, 2021

Holidays

12 Easy Homemade Halloween Treats Your Kids Will Love

Spooky and delicious Halloween treats

By: Rebekah Schilperoort | Oct 04, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

8 Trendy Outdoor Birthday Party Themes

Fresh ideas for your kid's big day

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jul 14, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Luscious Lemon Cupcakes from ‘Cake Magic!’ Cookbook

Lemon cupcakes with mixed berry syrup and cream cheese frosting

By: ParentMap Editors | Jun 02, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Inclusive and Diverse Toys for Kids

Teach your kids about diversity, inclusion and different cultures with these awesome toys

By: Ella Gonchar | May 27, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

9 Fun Birthday Ideas and Activities for Kids

Have a birthday party to plan? The kids will love these ideas

By: Jen Betterley | May 21, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

10 Birthday Treats That Take the Cake

Unique sweets to serve to your birthday buddy instead of cake

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 26, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Awesome Ideas to Make That Virtual Birthday Party Extra Special

Collaborative gaming, Lego parties, paint-along activities, magic shows and more

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 25, 2021

Birthdays + Parties

Celebrating at Home: Gourmet Takeout, Treats and Entertainment

Make any event feel special with fancy takeout, cakes, balloons and more

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 11, 2020

Holidays

12 Easy Halloween Party Snacks

Give your little goblins and ghouls some festive treats

By: ParentMap Editors | Oct 06, 2020

Birthdays + Parties

6 Fun Ideas to Break the Monotony of Quarantine Living

Celebrate and do something different this week

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | May 19, 2020

Birthdays + Parties

9 Creative Ways to Celebrate Kids’ Birthdays During Quarantine

Fun, cheap and easy ways to make kids feel loved on their special day

By: Erin Smith | Apr 22, 2020

Birthdays + Parties

10 Creative Ideas for Hosting an Awesome Sleepover Party

Make the most of a slumber party with these entertaining games, crafts and activities

By: Shar Petit | Feb 14, 2020

Birthdays + Parties

10 STEM-Themed Birthday Party Ideas for Your Budding Scientist

How to throw a mad science birthday

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 03, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

9 'Frozen’ Ideas for Winter Birthday Fun

A roundup of the coolest Disney-themed party ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Nov 14, 2019

Pregnancy + Childbirth

7 Adorable Gender-Neutral Baby Shower Ideas

Eschew pink and blue and try one of these ideas instead

By: Rachael Okerlund | Sep 26, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

10 Birthday Party Ideas Based on Popular Children's Books

Wow your young reader with these literary-themed birthday party ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Aug 21, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

13 Wild West Birthday Party Ideas

Celebrate your little cowgirl or cowboy Wild West-style with these decorations, games and treats!

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jul 25, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

10 Summer Birthday Party Ideas

Wear them out with these awesome activities

By: Jen Betterley | Jun 26, 2019

Family Management

Why I'm Saying No to Most of My Kids' Birthday Party Invites

Sorry, Rachel Hollis

By: Erin Smith | Jun 17, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

Why Travel Should Be the New Birthday Party

Give your kids the best birthday ever without any of the hassle

By: Tiffany Pitts | Jun 06, 2019

New Parents

How to Plan the Perfect 'Game of Thrones' Baby Shower

Celebrate your newest prince or princess

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | May 14, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

How to Throw an Awesome Birthday Bash Without Breaking the Bank

Simple ideas to cut down on costs

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | May 14, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

8 Creative Birthday Party Themes Your Kids Will Love

Make it your kid's best birthday yet

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 20, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

Vroom Vroom! 10 'Cars' Birthday-Party Ideas

10 birthday ideas that will have you saying "ka-chow!"

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 05, 2019

Birthdays + Parties

How to Throw the Ultimate Lego Birthday Party

For the Lego lover in your life

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jan 30, 2019

Food

4 Fun Recipes to Make for Super Bowl 2019

The best part of football? The food, obviously

By: Elisabeth Kramer | Jan 28, 2019

Indoor Play

Build-A-Bear Offers a Huggable Deal

Discount bears Sunday and Monday for National Hug Day

By: Nancy Chaney | Jan 18, 2019

Indoor Play

Tired of the Same Ol' Indoor Play Space? Check Out This New Spot

Ball pit, zip line, slides, tea cup spinners and more

By: April Chan | Dec 13, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

December Birthdays Are the Worst...But They Don't Have to Be

Don't let the holidays distract from your kid's special day

By: Katy M. Clark | Dec 07, 2018

thor's hammer cupcakes superhero birthday party snacks dessert

Birthdays + Parties

12 Marvel Superhero Birthday Party Ideas

Your little superhero will love these ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Nov 29, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

How to Make Birthday Cakes Look More Impressive

The secret to a winning birthday cake is hiding in your toy bin

By: Diana Cherry | Oct 24, 2018

Crafts + DIY

Need Pumpkin Carving Tips? The Pumpkin Professor Is In

Tips, tricks and ideas from a pumpkin carving pro

By: Diana Cherry | Oct 24, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

All Paws on Deck for a Paw Patrol Birthday Party

Adorable DIY ideas the kiddos will love

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Oct 24, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

9 Grr-ific Ideas for a Daniel Tiger Birthday Party

Get inspired by these adorable DIY ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Oct 22, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Out on That Birthday Party

A response to the plea of Rachel Hollis of The Chic Site

By: Bryony Angell | Aug 23, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

Build-A-Bear Offers One-Day Deal This Thursday

Plus, a new special for your kid's birthday month

By: Elisabeth Kramer | Jul 12, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

My Family Gave Up Birthday Parties

And it's such a relief

By: Rebecca Alwine | Jul 09, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

7 Super Ideas for an 'Incredibles 2' Birthday Party

From invites to masked balloons, everything you need to have a super time

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jun 21, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

16 Angry Birds Party Ideas

Ideas that'll get your family all atwitter

By: Jen Betterley | May 18, 2018

Food

8 Tips for a Perfect Tea Party

Celebrate the Royal Wedding with an English tea party

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | May 17, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

Best Ninjago Birthday Party Ideas

DIY ideas for your next birthday bash

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Apr 26, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

16 Birthday Party Ideas Featuring Minions

These are perfect for any kid who is crazy for 'Minions' and 'Despicable Me'

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Mar 23, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

10 'Finding Dory' Party Ideas

Channel your inner Dory with these fun ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Feb 15, 2018

Birthdays + Parties

Minecraft Party Genius

Planning a Minecraft party? Ideas to get you started

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 22, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

15 Homemade Goody Bag Ideas

Parents and kids alike will say 'oh goody!' to these ideas

By: Jen Betterley | Dec 20, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

15 Creative Birthday Cakes and Treats

Cool cupcakes, cakes and more creative party desserts

By: Jen Betterley | Dec 20, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

10 Unique Party Favor Ideas

Make it cool, make it special, make it easy

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 15, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

10 'Star Wars' Party Ideas

Throw the best party in the galaxy!

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 13, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

10 Neon Birthday Party Ideas

Glow on with these illuminating ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Nov 03, 2017

Apps + Tech

12 Tech Gifts Your Kids Will Totally Love

Rack up the cool-parent cred this holiday season

By: Gemma Alexander | Oct 26, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

10 Trendy and Adorable Birthday Party Themes for Kids

Emojis, Pokemon, Wonder Woman and more fun ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Oct 23, 2017

Food

15 Allergy-Free Treats for Kids

Sweet allergy-free recipes and on-the-go snacks

By: Shar Petit | Sep 13, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

9 Fun Freebies and Giveaways for Kids

By: JiaYing Grygiel | Jul 07, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

Parent Goody Bags and More Inspired Party Ideas

Unexpected birthday rituals up the bonding for everyone

By: Jessica Graham | Apr 25, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

Top Chef Birthday Parties

Party ideas for your foodies-in-training

By: Kate Missine | Feb 27, 2017

Birthdays + Parties

You're a Wizard, Harry! 11 Party Ideas From the Wizarding World

Add some magic to any celebration with these fun ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Aug 10, 2016

Birthdays + Parties

Go Wild for These 12 'Jungle Book' Birthday Party Ideas

Your kids will love these Tarzan invitations, jungle decor and more!

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jul 07, 2016

Birthdays + Parties

BFG Birthday: 10 Big Friendly Giant Ideas to Help You Celebrate

Roald Dahl fans, rejoice! Your BFG birthday party ideas all in one spot

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Jun 25, 2016

One boy and one girl blowing out birthday candles

Arts + Entertainment

Golden Teddy 2016 Activities for Kids

Winners and finalists for 2016

By: Rory Graves | Jun 10, 2016

Birthdays + Parties

Go Hawks! 7 Football Birthday Party Ideas

Score a touchdown with these inspired ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Dec 23, 2015

Birthdays + Parties

Budget-friendly Party Plans

How to have an at-home party during the rainy season without chaos

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Oct 23, 2015

Food

Sweet Success: How Molly Moon Neitzel Makes It Work

"Ice cream can be where a multigenerational community gathering happens."

By: Elisa Murray | Jul 31, 2015

Birthdays + Parties

10 Star Wars Crafts to Help You Channel the Force

Celebrate Star Wars Reads Day with super-galactic fun

By: Kelly Knox | Oct 06, 2014

Birthdays + Parties

8 Fantastic Party Themes

Throw a fantastic birthday party with these fully planned party ideas

By: Tiffany Doerr Guerzon | Oct 15, 2013

Birthdays + Parties

20 Inexpensive Goody Bag Ideas for Kids

Cheap and fun goody bag ideas