It's not compulsory, but invitations are usually required whenever you are planning to throw a party for your child. Not only are invitations a formal way of letting people know that you'd like their presence at your event, it's also a great way to keep the guest list in check, just in case you don't want anyone uninvited to crash your party.

Of course, since you're planning a children's party, your invitations should fit the theme. Or if you opted not to plan a themed party, at least fit with your child's age.

You can purchase ready made children's birthday party invitations from bookshops and party supplies stores, or you can make them yourself. A good computer printer and several cute designs from the Internet and you've already made yourself fun party invitations to hand out.

Now for what to put inside the invitations. Naturally, you'll mention what the party is all about. Some excited parents like to write poetry about their child's event inside. Something like "Oh, how fun! Mary is turning one!" works fine. You don't need to come up with too intricate poetry because you'll be sending out the invitation in the assumed voice and speech capacity of your child and his or her equally young guests.

If you're preparing for a themed event, get invitations that coincide with your theme. If a regular party is more up your alley, then invitations with cutesy characters or fun colors will do the trick. However which way you intend to design your child's birthday party invitations, be sure they reflect how fun you expect your kid's party will be, to entice his or her guests to come and join in.

You can place RSVP at the bottom of the invitation if you want to control the number of guests who will be coming. An RSVP will help give you an idea exactly how many people will arrive. You have to give a little room for a few more guests besides the one who RSVPed because, well, as much as an RSVP is a strict matter, there are still some people who might not understand how important it is and make attendance decisions at the last minute.

Also, you have to mention what kind of party you will be having and if your young guests will need to bring a change of clothes. If you're having a pool party, say so, so that they can bring their bathing suits and other water toys. If you're having a costume party, you need to urge your young guests to come in a costume according to your theme, or to their choosing.

Making invitations and planning the guest list is as fun as planning the party. Apart from the entertainment and food you have in mind, your child's party would be very boring without the guests, especially the ones who are nearer to your baby's age. Choose your guests wisely. After all, your child's enjoyment is your top priority. The party should be fun and memorable for him or her.