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When kids come to a birthday party, usually food is the last thing on their mind. They are so busy playing that food doesn’t really feature in their priorities. The birthday cake is an exception as that’s something that all kids look forward to. While planning a children’s birthday party, it is important to pay some attention to the presentation of dishes. Good looking, bite sized dishes usually attract kids. The idea is to create a spread that appeals to kids' tastes while being mindful of health, dietary restrictions and preferences.
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The age of the invited children will influence the menu choices to a certain extent. Younger kids may prefer simpler, less spicy foods, while older children might enjoy a variety of flavours. It’s best to check on dietary restrictions, allergies, or cultural food preferences of the children, by asking the parents when they RSVP, especially in the case of younger children.
It may be fun to align the food presentation with the overall theme of the party, if there is one. For example, a jungle-themed party could have animal-shaped sandwiches. To keep the mood playful and the settings bright, it may be a good idea to use colourful serving dishes to attract the kids’ attention. Setting up DIY stations such as pizza-making corners or a taco bar where kids can customise their food, may be fun. Getting the children to decorate cupcakes or playing games that involve food, like a fruit relay race, can keep the kids engaged and entertained.
The Checklist
Make sure there is enough food to cater to all guests, keeping in mind that children often have varying appetites. Consider hiring help for serving and managing the food stations to ensure smooth operation. Prepare as much as possible in advance to reduce stress on the day of the party. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold until serving time.
Clearly label foods that contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. Ensure that all food preparation areas and utensils are clean. Provide hand sanitizers or handwashing stations for the children.
Ideas On What To Serve
Welcome Drinks
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While it’s best to avoid sodas and aerated drinks for children, there are plenty of other options. For example, a Fruit Punch, the colourful, non-alcoholic beverage made with mixed fruit juices and soda and garnished with fresh fruit slices can be both healthy and appealing. Lassi, a sweet or salty yoghurt-based drink that is refreshing and nutritious or milkshakes flavoured with chocolate, strawberry, or mango, milkshakes are always a hit with kids.
Appetisers and Finger Foods
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Mini Samosas: These bite-sized pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas, easy for kids to handle and eat.
Paneer Tikka: Marinated paneer cubes grilled to perfection, served with mint chutney are soft and a safe bet as most children like paneer.
Chicken Nuggets: This universally loved finger food, is quick and easy to make and kids love it with a side of tomato ketchup.
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Mini Pizzas: Small pizzas with toppings such as cheese, corn, and bell peppers can be easy to make and serve.
Veggie Sticks with Dip: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks served with hummus or yoghurt dip make for a healthy option and is a great way to make sure the kids eat some veggies.
French Fries: Crispy and golden, these fries are a must-have at any children’s party.
Cheese Balls: Kids love cheese. These deep-fried cheese-stuffed snacks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits, served fresh or with a light dressing of honey and lime.
The Mains
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While most children are usually full with the finger foods, here are some options for food that may be a bit more substantial.
Mini Burgers/Sliders: Small-sized burgers can be made with chicken, paneer, or aloo tikki patties. These are filling and usually loved by most children.
Pasta: Creamy pasta in white or tomato sauce is easy to make, easy to serve and loved by most kids.
Pav Bhaji: A mildly spiced vegetable mash served with buttered buns, a hit with kids and easy to eat. As long as the spice levels are in control, this is a good option.
Noodles/Fried Rice: Both Indo-Chinese dishes are always a favourite. These can be made with egg, vegetables or chicken.
Desserts
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This is the section of the menu that children are most attracted to and don’t need any cajoling to eat. The centrepiece of any birthday party is the cake. Opting for a theme-based cake that matches the party’s decor and the child’s (the one whose birthday it is )interests is usually a good idea.
Cupcakes: Mini versions of the birthday cake, easy to serve and eat.
Ice Cream Sundaes: The best way to serve these is a DIY sundae bar with different flavours of ice cream, toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and nuts. The kids will enjoy picking and choosing flavours for themselves with the help of an adult.
Chocolate Fountain: Another interactive thing to try in the dessert section is a chocolate fountain where kids can dip fruits, marshmallows, and cookies into flowing chocolate.
Gulab Jamun: Adding this soft, syrupy Indian sweets that usually appeals to all is an option.
Go Healthy
Adding some healthy options to the menu may be a good idea. For example, smoothies made by blending fruits such as strawberry or banana, whole wheat Sandwiches stuffed with vegetables, cheese, or grilled chicken or skewers of assorted fruits, that are appealing and easy to eat, can be added to the menu.
