First limit the number of children to match the age of the child. For example, a four year old could have four children over. Involve your child with the planning. Allow them to have input as to the party theme, the food selected, and the games you will play. Make sure you put down boundaries first to avoid booking a circus, three dancing dogs and a symphony orchestra!

Keep the food simple. Don't go overboard trying to provide fancy food for adults and simple food for children. If you have parents attending, let them know the food will be designed with children in mind. This leaves you with one menu to prepare.

Include a simple activity to quiet the children down before eating. I do this at every party - and often get one of the other mothers to supervise while I finish off any food preparations. I like to host a craft activity as an alternative to goodie bags, and allow the children to take their masterpiece home. I like to think they are taking home a memory of my child's birthday that is more than a few sweets in a bag. Only invite the parents if you think it will make it easier. After your child reaches five, the presence of extra adults might add more stress. Most children will feel confident without parents there after this age.

When playing party games, take note of who wins each game and try to ensure that each child wins at least one game. Being the only child to lose at the party is no fun for the child. 'Pass the Parcel', a game where different gifts are wrapped in each layer for each stop, is the best way of making sure every child goes home with a treat.

Before the guests arrive go through the behaviour you expect from your child during their party. Remind them to greet each guest, and to say thank you when they receive party gifts. Also ensure they thank each person for coming as they go home.

Last tip: Plan your party for the afternoon - this allows you to miss meal times and still have enough time to prepare in the morning. Our last party was at 10:30 am and left me with two exhausted pre-schoolers for the rest of the day. Next year we will start no earlier than 2pm!

Article by Rachel Goodchild

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