Can't birthday parties be fun for both kids and grownups? We think so. Follow our easy guide to turning your child's next birthday bash into a blast for everyone.

It never fails: The school year's in full swing and soon every weekend is booked with a kid birthday party. Heck, it's only October and between my two kids, we've already been invited to six parties. Super fun for them, but not-so-super fun for me. While birthday parties are a great way to meet other parents, the weekends often end up revolving around them—at the expense of quality family time and me time.