Kids Party Food on a Budget

If you have children then you'll know that once a year you'll likely be organsing a party of some description for your child. If you have multiple children, then you'll be in the party planning (and spending) mode a few times a year. Birthday parties, whilst they can be a lot of fun, can also become one of those events where costs can spiral out of control. Here's a few tips for party food that doesn't have to cost a fortune.

DIY

You'll likely save the most money if you just do the food yourself. If you're having a party at a venue, the typical cost of catering for a child is around $7 -$10 per child, and in most cases, you can cater yourself for a lot less. Aim to find a venue where you can provide your own catering, or have the event at home or at a park where you can definitely bring your own supplies. If you are catering yourself, remember that when it comes to drinks, water is more than sufficient and you don't need to supply expensive sugary drinks. Add in a funky straw, or some natural colouring and kids will be very happy with just a party cup of H2O.



The same applies for a cake; to have a cake made for you can cost upwards of $120, whereas a home made cake can cost as little as $15. If you are a strict non baker, then a shop bought cake is also a more budget friendly option with supermarkets and local bakeries stocking a great range of cakes at around the $20 -$30 mark. Cupcakes also make a great option and can be transformed into great displays that would make any child's day.

Buffet Options

If you are doing a buffet for children, a key thing to remember is that they typically don't eat very much as there is so much else going on around them. Instead of over catering (and over spending), it's good to consider some easy to snack on items that kids can gobble up quickly so that they can get back to the serious business of partying. Here are some wallet friendly options, that are great for kids parties, and are easy to do too:







A really great (and cheap) idea for when strawberries are in season is strawberry and marshmallow kebabs. Just thread alternate strawberries and marshmallows onto straws and you have a really fun snack for kids.





Packed Lunches

If you're worried that a party buffet might end up costing a great deal of money, and result in a lot of wasted foods then an alternative option, is to pack each child their own 'party bag' with possible inclusions being a sandwich, a packet of crisps or crackers, popcorn, fruit and a cupcake or muffin. You can make your own party food bag using a coloured paper bag (in the theme of your party), or even using a lolly bag. This type of party packed lunch will cost you about $3 per child, so definitely saves on the cost of a catered event.

Related Articles

1. Lego Party

2. Superhero Party on a Budget


#birthday
#kids
#parties
#frugal_
#budgeting
#celebrations


%parent101