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recalls. 'And we always plan it when
our child is at her freshest." Because
many toddlers nap in the afternoon,
several parents agree that late-morning
parties work well because that's when
kids are in their most energetic and cel-
ebratory mood.

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Hiring outside entertainment almost
always ensures rave reviews. But, say
experienced parents, be aware that
oftentimes toddlers would rather eat a
bowl of brussels sprouts than spend five
seconds with a huge purple animal or
big furry critter. "Those ideas can back-
fire," says one Bloomfield Township
mother who hired a Cookie Monster-
type actor to pay a surprise birthday-
party visit.
Murray, who has hosted two home
parties for her 2-year-old son, Samuel,
has learned from experience that when
you host parties at your own home for
kids under 3 or 4, it's nice to request
that parents attend as well. "It's impossi-
ble to try and manage several kids by
yourself," Murray says.
Sometimes when parents leave young
children at a party, kids show signs of
separation anxiety "Even at the age of
4, it's not uncommon to see parents
stay with their kids at parties," Murray
says. "That's when it's a good idea to
have a sandwich or deli-style tray on
hand ... for the adults."
But when the weather's not promis-
ing and you don't want your house and
gardens torn apart by high-energy tod-
dlers, there are plenty of metro area
party sites.
Consider bowling alleys (Langan's
Bowling Alley in Farmington Hills
throws two-hour bumper bowl bashes
for youngsters), water parks, nature cen-
ters (the new Madison Heights center is
receiving rave reviews), community cen-
ters and health clubs as site possibilities.
The success of a party also depends on
something as simple as the party's dura-
tion. "Two hours max," Murray con-
tends. 'After that, everyone goes hay-
wire." ❑

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