Children's Birthday Party Ideas

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Games are a great way of breaking the ice particularly if the children are shy and don't know each other. Always include traditional games such as pass the parcel, pin the tail on the donkey and blind man's buff which have been passed down the generations and are timeless classics. But why not intersperse those with name badge-making, and party hat colouring for a modern twist.

In the past ideas for parties tended to be confined to the good old-fashioned games and jelly and ice cream tea-parties. Today's they are so much more sophisticated and range from themed parties - such as Pirates and Princesses - to activities such as ten-pin bowling, laser games and cinema or theatre outings.

There is always so much to think about when organising a kid's party, and organisation is the key. Make sure the invites go out three weeks in advance and prepare checklists for venue, activities, and food. Make sure you set the scene with music and decorations. If you're holding the party at a venue away from home does not forget to take your portable CD player. Balloons, streamers, banners, themed paper, tablecloths, paper plates and cups, spray streamers, party hats help create an instant party atmosphere.

You may choose to run the party yourself or opt for an entertainer. The best way of finding an entertainer is by word of mouth. Otherwise check out the local directory and find your own entertainers, making sure you check out their testimonials before making your booking. Party venues can range from your own home to a sports centre or play area - if you are only inviting a few children, there's no place like home! But if the whole class is on the list of guest you might wish to opt for a hired venue such as a community or sports hall.

There are plenty of ideas on the internet, so if you are looking for something extra special, you might just find a theme or concept which no-one has organized before and you can blaze the trail! But whatever you choose, make sure you relax and enjoy the party with your child - there's nothing worse than a stressed mum -except a stressed child!