I think the issue here is OP doesn’t want to do a “big” party which I’m translating as expensive, and a trampoline party is expensive whether you have 2 guests or 20. You can buy single passes but won’t be able to bring in outside food like a cake unless you buy the party package. |
| Do you have enough space in your house/yard for the kids to play? If so, but some balloons and streamers and a cake from the grocery store. Get pizza and snacks and a veggie tray. Maybe have one or two organized games if you think the kids would like that. |
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If someone asked me to bring $5 to a kid’s birthday I would truly clutch my pearls lol.
The point of gifts at kid parties is for kids to get to practice giving each other gifts. That’s kind of dumb and doesn’t end up happening which is why most kid parties these days specify No Gifts Please. |
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You can hire a person to teach the kids a skill like a dance class or an intro tae kwon do one.
Have a fun and doable craft to make. Magic show. |
| Chuck E Cheese is probably your best best for this age group. |
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Bounce house in back yard, maybe another activity as well, pizza, fruit, cake.
Do not mention money. |
+1 just did a similar party for this age group. Kids also just like to play with each other especially at someone else's house. We let them play both indoors and out. Didn't need to plan much and they had fun. |
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Thanks from OP.
I think the storyboard idea is a good way for her to visualize. Last night before bed I asked her to think about what she was feeling when she was leaving the park (sad, angry, upset) and what she was feeling leaving the pool (happy, proud) and which made her feel good after a fun activity. Not to downplay feeling different emotions, but she agreed it was nicer to feel happy than to feel sad, and hopefully it clicked a little more that she can control which way she feels when it is time to leave an activity. Four is rough! But figuring it all out, thanks again for the support, guys.
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| ^ Ah, wrong topic. Disregard! Sorry!! |