Children's Parties 

The competition is fierce with many parents competing with more and more extravagant parties that other parents could never even begin to afford.  The truth though is that the children will have fun anywhere as long as they are kept busy and everything has been designed around them.  A well thought through party at home can still have the wow factor for both the children and the parents. 

Decide what theme your party will have and theme everything to this including the invitations and then everything on the day from the plates to the birthday cake. Asking everyone to dress to the theme will instantly add extra excitement as everyone admires each others costumes.

Depending on the age of the children you will need different kinds of entertainment. The under 5's are easier to amuse (albeit harder to look after) and will be happy with a room scattered with balloons, some music and a few traditional party games like Musical Chairs.  The older children need more thought.  What about a cooking party where everyone makes and decorates cupcakes? Or create your own treasure hunt with forfeits and prizes along the way. 

Children don't want food that is too adventurous.  Stick to the usual things they like such as pizza, pasta, mini hamburgers and hotdogs, but be sure to offer carrot sticks and cherry tomatoes and some vegetables to balance it out.

Don't forget the parents.  If the children are young the parents will expect to stay so cater for them too.  A few tasty canapes and some drinks set up on a nearby table will mean you are still free to run the party without worrying.

As the children are leaving the party be sure to give them a party bag and a balloon.  The party bag could either contain a single gift or a small selection of fun items that are also themed to the party. As long as put some thought into and make it special the children will go home very happy... and tired.