1st bday party and eating cake

[mommywossum]

 My little boy barely has his 2 front teeth, and I'm reluctant to let him eat any cake at his birthday party.  Of course, the family really wants to see him get all in it, but I really don't want him, too.  Any suggestions for handling this situation would be great.  Thanks!

[mommytoadam]

Dec. 18, 2007 at 1:07 PM

Check your local grocery stores - - ours gives away free "smash" cakes when you buy the birthday cake there for your child's first birthday.  Honestly, it's not the number of teeth that matters at all -- I would just avoid chocolate.  We always got yellow or white cakes for them to eat.  I think letting him play in it for a minute or two for some good camera opportunities would be enough.  We never let our children eat a lot on their first birthday.  Stick their fingers in it, lick it and then they were done.  Just enough time for family to get great photos.

And check with your pediatrician if you're not comfortable.  Most of them are going to say it's okay in moderation.   

If you do decide to let him have some cake, I would HIGHLY recommend completely undressing him down to his diaper.  Otherwise it'll be a lot messier to clean up!! 

Trust me - - the pictures are priceless!  My son thought his cake was a toy until he stuck his fingers in it.  Then he completely froze!!  I had to guide his fingers to his mouth so he could taste it!  It was wonderful to see his eyes light up!