As we’re celebrating our 10th birthday this month, I thought it only right to give you my take on The Ultimate Kids’ Party Guide!

The room

Start with the room and your choice of decorations. Whether you’re hosting a party in your living room or a hired hall, the difference between a well-decorated room and one without trimmings is massive! Simply adding banners, streamers, fresh flowers and simple yet bright table centre pieces can create a perfect ambience.

This element of the party does not need to be expensive, as long as it is cheery and slightly over the top – personally, I think madness makes a party and it is certainly not the time to be sensible or conservative in your approach! Think bright, colourful and a little bit wacky and you’ll be on the right track.

The cake

Birthday cake is a must and it must be large, heavily decorated to your children’s favourite theme, and taste ‘magical’! Whether you make your own or buy it from a shop or bakery, a beautiful yet delicious cake is the centre piece of any party. This is the place to invest – the rest can be built around your masterpiece.

The fun factor

For the fun factor, music is massively important, both as a background filler and for dancing. These days it couldn’t be easier to create your own playlist on your phone and plug into a Bluetooth speaker. Gone are the days of a disco DJ – these days we can all be MCs and Master Mixers! Choose a range of classics, sing-a-long favourites and modern hits to keep everybody happy.

Games are just as important to keep your child and their friends entertained throughout the party. You could combine games and music, or come up with your own activities. Just remember to have some prizes on hand for the winners – edible prizes tend to go down a storm with kids.

Refreshments

Of course, food and drink is crucial to keep energy levels up through the day, and must be delicious, fun and easy to eat. Finger food, nibbles and a lot of sugar seem to be the order of the day. I think birthday parties are the one time it is OK to forgo your five-a-day and have a ‘golden’ meal filled with pastries, sugar and a side of choice protein.

You know your guests and if some have dietary needs it is completely acceptable to ask them to bring their own food to ensure they feel well fed. In fact, bring and share is a popular way to go and you will find a wide range on offer, especially if your guests are culturally diverse.

Mocktails anyone?

To support the usual wine and beer offerings, a fruit punch, a range of fizz and some alcohol-free beverages are a must. Think of designated drivers, dry guests and parents caring for small ones, and make your non-alcoholic options as attractive as ‘the real thing.’

Personally, I am a fan of the Mocktail, served in fancy glasses with cherries, olives, fresh fruit, mint leaves – all the fancy stuff. They look and taste incredible, are fully inclusive, and the biggest bonus of all? No hangover when you’ve got children to look after!

For more party inspiration, check out our Save the Planet article, in print or online.