Let's face it: birthday parties are a big deal to your kids, and they will remember their birthday celebrations for the rest of their lives. What are some birthday party ideas for kids?

1. Fairy Garden Party

This enchanting theme is based on "Fairy Houses" by Tracey Kane (which is excellent to read during the party). The premise is that fairies are all around us, and if we make spots for them, maybe, just maybe they'll stop by to visit. You'll need a basket for each child, and items to create gardens in the baskets: soil, small stones, pieces of mirror, basically all kinds of little "junkies" that most of us have around the house. This party is excellent during warmer-weather months, as the kids can create their gardens outside and take them home.

2. Pirate Party

Ahoy, mateys! Everyone loves a pirate party. For this party, you'll want a treasure chest as a center prop - either find an old chest, or paint a styrofoam cooler brown and decorate it with sparkly ribbon. This can be filled with treat bags for the kids, game prizes and more. Hang fishing nets around the party room, and have eye patches for each attendee. Ideas for games can include "walking the plank" and searching for "gold."

3. Tea Party

Dressing up all ladylike is a fun theme for many girls, making tea parties a popular birthday party idea. On invitations, invite each girl to bring her favorite doll and to dress up in her best finery. At the party, you'll want to have additional jewelry, furs, high heels and other fun dress-up attire. Of course, the highlight of this party is serving tea (or lemonade) to the partygoers and their doll guests, along with fancy sandwiches cut into shapes and beautifully decorated sugar cookies.

4. Stuffed Animal Party

Although many parents don't, most kids love stuffed animals. Why not feature them as a birthday party theme? Invite each child to bring his or her favorite stuffed animal to the party. For crafts, make nametags for the animals, and kids can have fun creating blankets for them as well (fabric stores have many cute flannel fabrics). Games such as "Doggy, Doggy, Where's Your Bone?" are popular here; as are cookies cut into animal shapes.

5. Amazing Race Party

Although this idea is inspired by the popular television show "The Amazing Race," kids don't need to be familiar with the show to enjoy the idea of a scavenger-hunt party. This party requires some neighborhood teamwork and time upfront, but it will be worth it as you see your child's enjoyment. Ahead of time, come up with 5-7 tasks that each team of party attendees will need to do during the party (ideas could be asking for various items from pre-selected neighbors, having a jello-eating contest in the backyard, etc). Check with neighbors to find willing cohorts on some of the tasks. The party will consist of the teams of kids "racing" to complete the tasks.

Birthday parties are one of the best parts of growing up. Enjoy your child's birthday party, whichever idea you choose!

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Susan Braun is a freelance writer living with her husband, three daughters, 2 rabbits, 2 gerbils and hedgehog in Indiana.  She writes at girlsinwhitedresses.wordpress.com and Associated Content.