Hints & Tips
Children's parties can be great fun, or absolute nightmares for a variety of reasons. However, there are a number of hints which I recommend you take into account when planning your child's birthday party...
First of all plan well ahead choose and book your entertainer well in advance before your venue, this will ensure that you get the entertainer you want - you can always confirm the venue with them at a later date.
Send your party invitations early. Obviously if someone else in your child's class plans a party on the same day it could cause a lot of problems and may result in you having to change your plans.
Restrict mixing the age range and if you want peace of mind and your budget allows, book a good professional children's entertainer.
Experience has shown that two hours is the maximum needed for a really good party for children in the three to ten year old range. Time can always be allowed at the end of the party for children to run around and waste some excess energy.
Fancy dress parties can be fun for the older children but not so with a younger group. Many of the costumes worn at fancy dress parties are impractical and sometimes dangerous. You should consider this carefully before arranging a fancy dress party.
On the day of the party tie a bunch of balloons to the front door. It guides the guest to the party house and sets the mood! As the children arrive, put the presents safely to one side so that they can be opened after the party. This way you will know who bought what so that 'thank you' cards can be sent. This also ensures that nothing gets lost or broken, and of course makes sure the birthday child has something to look forward to after the party.
The lunch/tea should be a simple affair without too much choice, frills or ceremony. Keep to simple food such as sandwiches, crisps, jelly and cakes. Children will always go for these first.
Save squeakers, blowers and balloons till the end of the party. They distract their attention and can ruin your party.
Don't serve ice cream, sweets or other refreshments during the magic show or before other entertainment has begun - time will be allowed during the show for food.