In side there is usually a simple greeting, such as 'Happy Birthday' or 'Many Happy Returns of the Day'. Children expect to receive a special birthday present from their parents. As they get older, many expect larger, more expensive presents, such as a music system or a television.
In the US children who have their birthday during the school year take a cake to school and have a small party with their class. In Britain children sometimes get bumped by their friends (= lifted off the ground horizontally and put down again sharply), the same number of time as their are. Some US parents have the custom of spanking their child, once for each year of their age.
Many younger children invite their friends to a birthday party at their home. Balloons are often tied to the gate of the house where the party is being held. Children wear their party clothes and take a present.