We all want to give our kids the best birthday experiences every year.
After all, part of what makes childhood so magical is all the surprise parties, presents and loved ones who gather just to celebrate us.
But with so many economic pressures of late, many families have to forego lavish birthday parties for small, humble gatherings.
While there is absolutely nothing wrong with celebrating birthdays on a budget, here’s a way to do so without sacrificing too much.
Recycle Old Birthday Decorations
If you’ve been celebrating birthday parties for any length of time as a parent, you may have accumulated your fair share of birthday decorations.
For those that are not used for or near food, you can use some paint or spray paint to give them a different colour.
That said, it’s also great to DIY your own birthday decorations.
Cut Down the Guest List
At the risk of offending family members or acquaintances, limit invitations to reasonable amounts.
This includes close relatives, your child’s school friends/playmates, and teachers.
Definitely leave out anyone your kids don’t like. Remember the birthday party is about your kids, not about the invitees.
Ask them who they want to invite, instead of dictating the guest list for them.
Dollar Stores are Your Friend
I know what some of you may be thinking: Uh… dollar stores? No, thanks.
But don’t dismiss the power of a good bargain price. If you’re worried about quality, you may just be missing out.
Most dollar stores today, despite being dirt cheap, offer some of the best quality products money can buy.
Which makes them a sort of hidden gem among penny-pinchers and supersavers.
Bake Your Own Cake
There are so many ways to fancy-fy a box cake. Whether that’s adding a few extra ingredients, or busting out those hidden cake decorating skills.
Besides, something made with love is as much if not more precious as something that a stranger made in a shop.
Pour in your love into the cake mix and give your kids the best birthday cake they’ve ever had!
Book a Cheap Birthday Venue
There’s no better way to save up on birthday parties than to do it in the comfort of your own home.
Other than that, you can also opt to save up for a budget birthday destination for your kid(s).
This may include going for a field trip to their favourite places or book a cheap venue for a birthday surprise party.
Best Kids Birthday Venues Around Klang Valley Within RM100
KidZania
Fuelled by a child’s natural desire to explore, have fun, create, and collaborate, KidZania offers a progressive concept with exciting hands-on activities designed for children from 4 to 14 years old.
Location: Curve NX, Mutiara Damansara
Prices:
-
- Toddler (2 to 3 years): RM 36 to RM48
- Child (4 to 17 years): RM 70 to RM100
For private birthday bookings enquire via email or phone (rates may vary).
Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Wednesday to Monday)
Closed on Tuesdays for safety maintenance.
Contact: www.kidzania.com.my
Party Room
Party Room is the first interactive party space in Malaysia. It has four themes including Kids zone, Sport zone, Puzzle zone and Leisure zone which are all well equipped with various facilities, games and accessories.
Location: Atria Shopping Gallery, PJ.
Prices:
-
- Weekdays: RM30 to RM75 per hour
- Weekend: RM35 to RM90 per hour.
Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (daily)
Contact: 019-2000861 | enquiry@partyroom.com.my
Kids Nation
Kids Nation is one of the biggest soft plays in Klang Valley.
Their aviation themed play land aims to enhance the child’s experience through their unique facilities like donut and spiral slides, trampolines, webbing bridges, crawling tunnels, magic mirrors, ball pools and much more.
Location: 163 Retail Park, Mont Kiara
Prices:
-
- Weekday: RM25 (below 2) to RM50 (2 and above)
- Weekend: RM30 RM25 (below 2) top RM60 (2 and above)
For private birthday bookings enquire via email or phone (rates may vary).
Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (daily)
Contact: 03 6419 4976/ 0127881843 | info@kidsnation.my
Birthdays on a Budget are Possible
Remember mummies, birthdays don’t have to be expensive. You can still celebrate your kids even with a small budget.
There are plenty of other event venues and event planners that offer inexpensive services for your kids.
That said, you can stick to a simple house party and make it extra special for your little one all on your own.
Whatever you decide, remember that at the end of the day it’s the time we spend with loved ones that count.
Don’t worry about impressing guests. Just follow the above advice and you can give your child(ren) the best birthday party surprise of their lives.
You’ve got this, mums!
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!