A birthday party can be a special and memorable occasion for your child. However, it can also become a time of stress, overexcitement, and chaos. The best way to plan for a successful children's party is to lower your expectations. Toddlers are easily impressed, so you don't need to hire the most popular performer around and a cast of thousand to entertain your guests. Your best bet is to keep things very simple. Invite only a few of your child's playmates, and keep the party short and simple. Refreshments, gift opening, and two or three simple activities is plenty.