Planning a birthday party for a gaggle of children is no easy feat, whether they are your children, your nieces and nephews, step-children, or foster children, but keeping both kids and parents happy will ensure your party is a roaring success. From food choices to choosing the best decor, like balloon arches, follow these top tips to throw a bash that delights everyone on the guest list.
1. Food for All Ages
With kids ranging from toddlers to pre-teens, you’ll need to provide food that suits all appetites and dietary requirements. Include classic kids’ party foods like crisps, sausage rolls, sandwiches, fairy cakes and jelly, but also offer some healthier snacks like carrot sticks, fruit skewers and hummus. Don’t forget to check for any allergies beforehand too. Having a few options that even fussy eaters will enjoy prevents hungry meltdowns, and if you are fostering in Milton Keynes and have just welcomed foster children into your home, bear in mind they might have special dietary needs or prefer not to eat with the other children just yet.
2. Fun and Games
Party entertainment is a must to keep little ones thoroughly occupied. Classic pass the parcel, musical bumps and statues are fun for all ages. Also, consider hiring an entertainer like a magician, balloon artist or face painter for an extra special touch. Outdoor games like tag, a treasure/scavenger hunt and egg and spoon races will also keep kids energised for hours. Having lots of activities prepared means they won’t get bored, leaving parents free to chat without interruptions.
3. Goodie Bags to Go
Kids always love taking home a gift or memento from a party, so make sure everyone gets a small goodie bag. Fill them with fun but inexpensive items like stickers, temporary tattoos, bubbles, sweets, small toys and perhaps a party invitation or photo from the event. Ask parents to arrive armed with goodie bags too so guests can take away any crafts or artwork created on the day. It’s a handy way to make sure nothing gets left behind!
4. Somewhere for Parents to Be
While the kids play, parents will want to relax so make sure you have seating arranged for them too. Clear a separate area just for adults with comfortable chairs and sofas so they can enjoy some child-free conversation. Offer tea, coffee and maybe a few nibbles to make them feel pampered. Even simple gestures like reserving a bathroom just for parents shows you’ve considered their needs too.
5. Favours to Thank Parents
Don’t forget the parents! They’ve kindly brought the kids along so make them feel appreciated too. Hand out small favours like boxes of chocolates, scented candles, soaps or bath bombs so they have a little treat to enjoy once they get home. If hospitality space allows, even having a few magazines, books and board games just for the grown-ups makes for a thoughtful extra touch. These little luxuries are a lovely way to say thanks for sharing in the celebrations!
Following just a few of these handy tips will guarantee smiling faces amongst children and adults alike. With plenty of food, fun and even freebies offered to parents, your thoughtfully planned kids’ party will leave everyone feeling merry!
