BE MONARCH FOR THE DAY
Several readers told us they let their kids pick the dinner menu, ignore chores, and generally rule the roost on their birthday, but the Faerbers of Pleasant Grove, Utah, take it a step further. Their three kids make a custom crown from card stock that prominently displays their new age, then wear it wherever they go that day, basking in the greetings they get along the way. The Frickes of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, have their own twist: they give their two daughters a budget and let them plan their perfect day. "They dream and plot this out for months in advance, and we get very specific lists!" says mom Kym. Nine-year-old Jacquelyn chose to wake on her last birthday to a room packed with balloons, a fresh flower bouquet, and a chocolate croissant from her favorite bakery.
CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY WEEK
The Ostvigs of Long Lake, Minnesota, like to stretch their celebrations by giving each family member center stage for a week. The festivities kick off with a homemade "happy birthday" poster and the telling of the birth story. Each day after that, the family of six gathers for one special treat, such as a game night, a movie, or a dinner out. Says mom Donna, "This tradition has helped us to slow down and take some time to celebrate that special member of our family."
