Doesn't it seem like just yesterday that your child was learning how to ride his or her bike? In some ways, your child's kindergarten years probably seem like they happened just yesterday. In other ways, it might seem like centuries have passed. If your child is about to graduate from high school, you probably are having mixed emotions. Part of you is excited about adventures that are ahead, while another part of you might be feeling somewhat melancholic about the passage of time. Planning a high school graduation celebration is a great idea. This is a good time for you to honor your child for past achievements and to show appreciation for a job well done. From invitations to banners that will be part of the decorations, here are some ideas that might inspire you to plan a fun and memorable event.

The Invitations - Unless this is going to be a surprise event, it's a good idea to get a guest list from your son or daughter. Besides friends and family members, will teachers, church leaders, coaches and others be on the list? Go over the list with a fine-tooth comb so that nobody will be left out. Even though sending email invitations is probably the easiest route, don't you think that invitations received in the mail will be more fun? Come up with a clever invitation that will set the mood for your party. If the party is going to be a casual one, draw a stick figure picture of your son or daughter wearing a graduation cap and carrying a diploma for the front of the invitation. If it's going to be an elegant affair, think of using your child's graduation picture for the front of the invitation. Don't forget to ask for RSVPs so you'll have an idea of how many will be attending the celebration.

Decorations - Start with a custom banner that will greet the guests as they arrive at the place where the party will be held. Custom banners are affordable and truly help to make a statement. You can even put your child's picture on a custom banner. Think of a catchy phrase to put on the banner. College Bound, Greatness Ahead, Ready For Life, Adventures In The Making and It's Only The Beginning are some ideas for the wording. Even though it would be good to order the custom banner ahead of time, don't panic if that hasn't happened. Custom banners can be ordered online or in stores and they can be ready really fast. Other ideas for decorations are:

• Large posters of your child in different stages of his or her life
• Balloons in school colors tied in strategic places of the party room
• Graduation hats, diplomas, curling ribbon and confetti as centerpieces
• A huge blank poster board where guests can write a message to the graduate

Contact a business, such as the Kwik Kopy Business Center, for more information about creating banners or invitations. 

The Entertainment - Dance! Even those who won't want to be on the dance floor will enjoy having the music in the background. Hiring a DJ will mean that you'll have a maser or ceremonies that will add to the fun. If there will be people of all ages at your celebration, be sure there is dance music that everybody will enjoy. No matter the age, most people love the music of Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, The Platters and show tunes. 

Don't forget to take pictures that will remind your child of this memorable event.