Forget the guilt. Farming out birthday parties is a good thing. The options have exploded in the last few years, even for those of us who live outside Mecklenburg County. Kids can wage laser battles, drive bumper cars or climb colorful plastic contraptions. They can ride horses, climb artificial mountains or go with old standards such as skating rinks and fast-food restaurants.
Parents can blow a bundle, or spend only a few bucks per child.
They can rent a space and get creative, or let the party pros handle everything. But giving a great party takes more than signing the check. A little planning goes a long way toward ensuring fun for kids and a relatively stress-free time for parents. First-time parents may have grand visions of inviting 20 kids to the biggest play yard in town to celebrate Junior's second birthday. Take a deep breath and calm down.