When planning a holiday or birthday party for a child, you'll have a lot of logistics to consider, such as a venue, activities and favors. Don't overlook the event menu, however, as kids can be picky eaters. With a bit of preparation, you'll be able to put together a lunch or dinner that the young party-goers will love. 

Depending on your event-planning budget, you can hire a professional caterer or prepare the meal in your own kitchen. If you choose to work with a caterer, be sure to pick one that has experience working for children's parties for the best results. You can brainstorm ideas to come up with the best menu for your particular event and guest list. 

As another option, you can have your child's favorite restaurant, such as a Mexican eatery or an Italian cafe, cater the celebration for you. You'll be ensured that the celebrant will enjoy the food, and it will keep you out of the kitchen in the busy days before the event. 

Whether you plan on making the food yourself or hiring a catering company, be sure to take any of the guests' food restrictions or allergies into consider. For instance, if one of the party-goers has a peanut allergy, keep the nuts off of your menu. Also, you'll need to provide a meatless option for any vegans or vegetarians in attendance. 

Here are some additional menu ideas for kids' events:

1. Build-Your-Own Bar 

One way to keep kids both entertained and full throughout the party is by setting up any type of  "build-your-own" bar, which will allow the youngsters to get hands-on with their meals. Some ideas include taco, burrito, hamburger and hot dog, and pizza bars.

Prepare the meat and any other types of protein, such as refried beans or tofu, ahead of time, and set out bowls of traditional toppings and ingredients. For instance, for a taco bar, include hard and soft shells, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream. 

2. Finger Foods 

Another way to please the crowd of youngsters is by serving a selection of finger foods that they can enjoy while mixing and mingling with friends. They can fill up their plates will all of their favorites, such as sliders, egg rolls, cheese and crackers and corn dogs.

You'll also have the opportunity to serve items on the healthier side, including grapes, sliced bananas and apples, as well as carrots, cherry tomatoes and various dips.