Whether you like it or not, there’s a good chance a kiddo of yours might want to have a birthday themed around one of those classic, party-store themes. Sports, circus, ballerina, you know the drill. Luckily, I’ve rounded up a few ideas today to help you pull off a modern twist on those party concepts so you aren’t just stuck with what’s available in Aisle 4. —Kelly

Photo via 6th Street Design School

A Lullaby Party: Chances are if you’re throwing a party for a very little one, most of the guests will be adults. Up the ante on a lullaby or nursery rhyme party with more sophisticated color palettes mixed with a few details the kids will love (balloons, wands or crowns!).

Tutorial and Photo via You Are My Fave for Julep

A Circus Party: Think outside of the animal cracker box by printing off giant photos of animals and making a big ol’ circus parade on the wall! Party hats and crowns optional, but they sure do look like some wild party animals with ’em!

Photo by Kristen Curette Photography via 100 Layer Cake

A Dinosaur Party: Hop on the spray painted animal bandwagon and turn plastic dinosaurs into modern ones with a little spray paint. Use them as planters for decor that can last long after the party ends!

Photo via Kjerstis Lykke

A Soccer Party: Try playing up the black and white palette for a soccer party, instead of the soccer motif itself. A soccer cake and plates look much more modern when paired with black and white straws and balloons!

Photo by We Call This Love via 100 Layer Cakelet

A Ballerina Party: If your little lady love tutus, change up the ballerina theme with a Swan Lake party! Make feather tiaras and end the bash with a very special performance.

Photo + Tutorial via Studio DIY

An Outer Space Party: Top off an outer space party with a giant moon piñata! Hang it amongst gold star cut outs and disco balls stepping in as “planets.”