The Party Pyramid

When planning the schedule of your kid's party there are some basic elements you should keep in mind. Although the age, number and relationship of the guests will influence your choices I will share with you a format that has been a proven winner for countless birthday parties that I have worked on across Arizona. I would say the basic preschool to elementary age children's party should follow this structure.

Think of your party as a theatrical production. Gustuv Freytag was a 19th century play wright and novelist but his most lasting work was his analysis of Greek Theater that resulted in the modern structure of the five act play or short story. It is known as "Freytag's Pyramid".

• Act I - Exposition: This is the time that your guests arrive. Plan time for greeting, introductions and handling any last minute demands.


• Act II - Rising Action: You direct your child's friends to the moon bounce or the swing set to keep them occupied or this is the time for games and crafts.


• Act III - Climax: This is when your professional children's entertainer works their magic. It may be pony rides, a petting zoo, clown, magician or face painter. This is the time you can prepare your snacks, lunch or cake.


• Act IV - Falling Action: A great way to focus the kid's attention and allow your entertainment to escape is to move right to the cake or pinata.


• Act V - Resolution or Denouement: Now your group begins to diminish, you finally have a moment to spend with the grownups. Make time for goodbyes, thank you's and, if you choose, goodie bags.

As you begin to plan your event, keep this structure in mind. You can think of it as a simple guide and use your creativity to bring it to life. There are many possibilities as to entertainment, invitations, games, crafts and activities, but if you use this outline as your foundation, you will be able to build upon it. We will cover many of these over the coming weeks, but for now, remember your party will become a fond memory you and your child will share forever so make it special!