Your child’s first birthday is certainly a cause for celebration!  Many families want to mark the occasion with a big, memorable event to surround their child with friends and family.  However, this kind of party can be overwhelming and distressing to many toddlers. At UWS Parenting Support, we recommend very small, intimate and short (1 1/2 -2 hours, not too close to naptime) celebrations for a few good friends and family members. Quiet children’s music, finger food and cake is all you need to give your child a Happy Birthday. Save the big, loud parties for a few years so that your child (if he or she likes big parties, not all kids do) can enjoy it.