What have you doen for boy 2nd birthdays?

[slsurface]

My son's 2nd birthday is three months off, but I need to start planning now. Last year my father died just before his birthday and I canceled the party. This year I would like to have a nice party for him with our friends and their kiddos. I never really had parties as a kid, so I don't know what people usually do.

What sorts of party themes/activities have you done for your 2-year old boy? My ds is really in to trains and cars (aren't they all at this age?). Do you do games and crafts at this age? Your input is greatly appreciated!

[Sisyphus]

If I can give advice... don't do what I did and plan a bunch of stuff (crafts, etc.) just have bubbles, some sidewalk chalk and the like and let them play freely. I stressed myself out planning stuff and then got in a snit when no one wanted to do what *I* had planned.

Just let it flow

[reillys_mom]

for DS 2nd birthday we did a loose theme of his favorite things -- balloons od animals and a train cake -- and no activities beyond play areas with different toys. There was the kitchen, train, dollhouse, and barn/animal area. The biggest comments that we got from parents was that having different play areas kept the energy from getting to chaotic and with the food we went with Reilly's favorites -- hummus and dips, meatballs, spinach pockets, etc. So, it was all kid-friendly and parents just had to watch out if their child had an allergy. If it's warm I would go with lots of bubble and get one of the those bubble machines as it will entertain the kids effortlessly.

Oh, and no crafts at 2. We did felt masks for his 3rd bday and only the older kids/parents did any crafts. Just enjoy the time with friends and family.