So you don’t relish the idea of plunking down hundreds of dollars for your child’s birthday? Experts say you can entertain children – and their friends – without taking out a second mortgage. Some suggestions:

¢ Skip the trendy venues and have a party at home. In warm weather, use the backyard, the pool, the porch.

¢ Don’t just wing it. Have a theme.

¢ Keep them busy. Plan games. Try crafts.

¢ Think about the food. After cake, how much more do you need? Also, consider making the food yourself.

¢ Take the pressure away from gifts and remind your child that the party is just for fun.

¢ Consider suggesting that guests make donations to a charity in lieu of bringing gifts.

¢ Remember the gift of time. Consider creating a certificate for a special day with a parent or grandparent.

Sources: BirthdaysWithoutPressure.org, Orlando Sentinel research