A baby’s first year is full of cute, memorable moments, awe-inspiring new discoveries, and boundless love and affection. It’s no wonder that parents go all out for their little one’s first birthday. Many parents choose to go with a theme, and with so many resources and options available, it’s sometimes easy to go overboard. If you choose to go with a theme party, remember that it’s always better to pick something simple and do it well, rather than try to pull off something complicated with too many elements. We find that animal themes are always cute, fun and easy to whip up. Here are a couple of Baby Einstein inspired themes.

Old MacDonald Had a Farm
Go country! Your baby will look darling dressed up in a gingham shirt and overalls (or a denim skirt for the little ladies) with a cowboy hat. Cover your tables in checkered tablecloths, or if it’s warm out, set it up on the grass or on a bench for picnic-style dining. Set the mood with the CD and DVD from our Animals Around Me Discovery Kit and serve up American comfort food such as macaroni and cheese, apple pie, and lemonade or sweet tea. You can find some great inspiration for a barn-themed cake online. Create your own photo studio against a wall by arranging a haystack or two and some plastic farming toys, stuffed animals (think cows, piggies, and some costume props to get creative with. Guests will love posing their babies on a haystack and having an adorable memento to keep. You can also use the photos to send a personalized thank you card to them after the event.

Get Wild With an Animal Safari
If you want something a bit more exotic, a safari theme is always fun. Dress up baby in a pair of khaki pants and a safari hat. Grab a few pieces of fake foliage from your local Home Depot or Michael’s to add a wild, jungle feel to your home. Use them to frame the front door and other major entryways. Cover furniture in beige and olive colored sheets for a camouflage effect (this does double duty by protecting your furniture from children). Conjure up animal sounds with the CD from our Wild Animal Safari Discovery Kit. Be sure to have some animal crackers on hand for snacking. Add some excitement to your beverages by serving them in disposable Pick Your Nose Animal Cups. Kids really get a kick out of them! Set up a face-painting station with supplies and costume props from your local party store, such as animal ears, snouts, and masks. Parents will love seeing their cuddly little ones transformed into furry, spotted, and whiskered baby animals.

While you may want to invite the entire world to share in your joy and celebrate the little VIP in your life, it’s important to remember that baby might get overwhelmed by too many faces. Limit the guest list to a close circle of loved ones and familiar faces so that baby will feel right at home. We’d love to hear how you celebrated or plan to celebrate baby’s 1st birthday!