How to Celebrate Children's Birthdays in Quarantine

Staying home on your birthday is a bummer, but if it’s a child’s birthday, it’s much worse. Social distancing has made everything more complicated, but with the right ideas, you can still celebrate your little one’s big day at home and make them feel like the world isn’t upside down. All you need is a little imagination (and a little sugar won’t hurt).Children are especially having a hard time because their routines are out of whack, they miss their friends, and they may be too young to really understand why these measures are necessary. If they have a birthday coming up, they might feel pretty down about the whole situation.And while one might promise a big celebration when all this is over, that won’t replace their actual birthday. A home party without real guests won’t be the ideal celebration, but we have to think of ways to make a little one feel celebrated. So here are 10 ideas on how to celebrate children’s birthdays in quarantine.1. An Indoor CampoutCreate a camping experience indoors with a tent (or make one with pillows and sheets), roll out some sleeping bags or set up mats on the floor for sleeping. You can hang up some Christmas lights to look like stars in the night sky, make popcorn, roast marshmallows (even if it’s on the stove or in the microwave), and stay up late with the kids. Don’t forget to organize fun camp-themed activities, like a shadow game with the lantern or tell stories late into the night, and enjoy the change of pace yourself.2. Virtual GuestsIf your child is a bit older and misses their friends a lot, you can set up a playdate via Zoom or Google Hangouts or Caribu. Coordinate with the other parents to come up with an activity everyone can do together (coloring, painting nails, playing with their Toy Story toys) and have them sing happy birthday to your little one while they eat a cake or a cupcake.3. Get CookingIf your child loves helping in the kitchen, look for recipes for their favorite desserts or dishes and have them participate in making them. Cook their breakfast but with a twist, like unicorn pancakes, lunch, dinner, favorite snacks, and a mini cake at home. They’ll feel like they’re making all the decisions and will be proud of the final product. As for the time between meals, let them choose what they want to do.Don’t know how to make a birthday cake? Check out the recipe here.4. Decorations for DaysIf there was ever a time to decorate the house like a Pinterest birthday party, now is the time. Pull out all kinds of decorations you have, all the balloons, streamers, napkins and party-themed plates, anything you can imagine to make your home look like a giant party store. We assure you that the most basic activity will become amazing for your child if they are surrounded by balloons. Short on party supplies? Don’t worry, make them yourself with these mermaid party, Toy Story crafts or whatever you can imagine.5. Become a Fan of What Your Kids LoveDo you have a little Frozen fan, a Spider Man enthusiast, or a future firefighter at home? Let that passion take over the house and family for the day, make Mulan cupcakes, Forky cookies, or Paw Patrol helmets. Get out a web-shooting toy, dress up as if you’re ready to put out some flames, or sing “Let It Go” with them.6. Create a MasterpieceOrder some arts and crafts supplies and spend the day creating beautiful crafts with the birthday boy or girl. You can follow some YouTube tutorials, create original artwork, or even build something totally unique out of some recycled cardboard boxes.7. Break the RulesUnder normal circumstances, it’s probably not ideal to splash too much during bath time or to play basketball or roller skate anywhere in the house… fortunately, these are anything but normal circumstances. Think of some of your kids' favorite activities that they can’t do right now and find a way to do them at home. What could be more fun than breaking all the rules on your birthday?8. Pamper ThemThink about what “pampering” would look like and organize their own SPA day. Maybe it’s face masks and manicures or it could be breakfast in bed while watching their favorite movie. Do whatever you think will make them feel like celebrities and recharge their batteries.9. Movie NightYou can’t go to the movies right now, but your child can still watch their favorite movie with a group of friends thanks to Netflix Party, a free Google Chrome extension that allows you to watch Netflix synchronized with other users on their computers, no matter where they are. Plus, it includes a chat where your child and their friends can hang out and talk about the movie.10. Choose the ClassicsA classic decoration with balloons, a homemade cake, takeout pizza (support a local business!), and a movie night… You can have a wonderful party for your child with just the basics. Invite friends and family to join virtually and make the most of it! The point is simply to make your child feel loved and celebrated.Although it doesn’t seem like much, maintaining social distance keeps us all safe, and soon enough, both your children and you will be able to enjoy gathering with loved ones again and celebrating a birthday outside of quarantine.