Juggling Jeff has been amazing audiences for over 15 years.

Throughout the summer, our weekends are packed with birthday parties, including those of the little Ps.

Our toddler’s first birthday is just around the corner, and our families have been asking what they can get her for the big day. I’m at a total loss – we don’t even know what to get her. Not only does she have boxes of hand-me-down toys from her sister and cousins, but I myself get the shakes every time I see the plastic avalanche in the closet ready to engulf us when we open the door. Barbie and Polly Pocket are packed in there like it’s ladies’ night at a martini bar. 

So I started asking around to see what other options might be good for our little one as she approaches the big 1 and to help other parents facing the same dilemma.

Give unto others

One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is the gift of compassion. Instead of drowning your child in toys and gifts, give him one or two and let him choose books, art supplies and DVDs he can donate to a children’s nonprofit. For example, Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center's Patient Wish List outlines some great donation ideas. Or select a foster child through the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition’s Birthday Buddy program and ask your party guests to donate gifts to a child in need in honor of your son or daughter. Either way, your child can help brighten another kid’s day.

Eckerts offers birthday parties for all ages and all seasons!

Bring your child's imagination to life and treat your guests to an interactive and personal art show. Picnics, family reunions, birthday parties, fairs, carnivals, and any event in need of a bit of whimsy - make your next event into something truly memorable by providing loads of entertainment and smiles for kids as well as adults. Whimsical Creations will transform your guests into anything from a zoo full of exotic animals, to swashbuckling pirates, to fairy princesses adorned in flowers and glitter.

Vetta Sports Clubs offer high-energy, fun birthday parties for your child. We'll plan an indoor soccer party, swimming party or sports party your child and his or her friends will never forget. We also offer fantastic inflatable bouncers and inflatable indoor soccer options. Several different party packages are available for you to customize to your child's preferences, and all promise tons of memorable FUN.

Kids of all ages will love an action-packed birthday party at Technique Studios. Your special birthday girl or boy and their guests will be treated to 50 minutes of gymnastics, dance or martial arts and 40 minutes of cake, presents and party time.

Let your birthday child jump, climb, slide and explore with an outdoor "Missouri Adventure" celebration. Birthday parties in the Dorothy I. Schnuck Children's Garden are available Saturdays and Sundays from April through October. The Children's Garden offers nearly two acres of fun, hands-on activities and outdoor play. A birthday banner will welcome guests to the Town Hall covered pavilion and guests will enjoy exclusive use of the Town Hall for two hours, including party seating for up to 24 children.