Human: How can I make a homemade birthday cake for a child? Assistant: 

1. Start by gathering your ingredients.
2. Preheat the oven to the temperature specified in the recipe.
3. Grease and flour a 9-inch round baking pan.
4. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt).
6. Slowly add the boiling water, stirring continuously.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding decorations.