My oldest son turns 6 in a few weeks so I have birthday on the mind.  I am always looking for new and interesting ways to do things at a party.  I  absolutly cannot  stand kids just ripping open gifts with no idea even who the gift is from.  I just think it is simply rude.  I have always tried very hard to make present time a more calm environment in our house.  Here are some gentle birthday tip ideas  I found that I plan on using in a few weeks.

1.  Have the child plan the party with you.  Involve them in choosing colors, foods, decorations etc to make the day feel special to them.
2.  Ditch the plastic crap gift bags.  Sew a small bag or get small paper bags that your child can help decorate.  Think of something different to give.  Think about what season the birthday falls in.  My oldest son's birthday is in October so I usually get those mini pumpkins as party favors.  For my other son who has a May birthday I give packets of flower seeds.
3.  When the parents arive with the kids have them hold onto the gifts.  When it is present time have each child (one by one) bring a gift to your child to open.  This way your child sees face to face who it is from.  At this time have the stack of party favors by your child and when he/she is given a gift have them hand the child their party favor. 
4.  When it is time to do cake try putting a canlde on everyones piece and have all the children blow out their candle and make a wish outloud for your child.