By Hilary Basile

Many think that celebrating a birthday with a major holiday would make it extra special. It does, however, the holiday can cloud the birthday and make it difficult to plan a party with friends and family members who may already have their own holiday agendas. If your child's birthday party falls on or around a holiday such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, it may be worthy of considering the following ways to celebrate the birthday:

Birthdays on Floating Holidays

For children born around holidays with floating dates, such as Thanksgiving, plan to host a birthday party several weeks before or several weeks after the holiday. Consider celebrating on the child's half birthday with a cake and small gift. This will distinguish their birthday from the holiday.

Birthdays on Set Holidays

For birthdays that fall on a holiday with a set date each year, such as Christmas, it may be best to celebrate the birthday with a small family party on the day. Consider hosting a birthday party several weeks before or several weeks after the holiday. In addition to the small family party on the birthday, consider hosting a larger party with friends and family members on the child's half birthday. In essence, this creates two birthday parties for the child and makes for a fun family tradition. It also avoids over-stimulation caused by opening birthday gifts and gifts associated with the holiday.

Let the holiday stress move on and provide the birthday person with a unique day to focus on their special event.