Traditionally the most popular time of year for births is in August and September. Great timing when you are just getting the children back to school or nursery and then you have a party to plan.
Over recent years the traditional children’s parties that were held in the house and involved games like pass the parcel, have almost died out. Favouring a more entertainment based party that offers something different. The kind of entertainment the children are seeking now are activities like, soft play, bowling, arts and crafts, pamper parties, bouncy castles, jewellery making and sports.
With entertainment of this sort usually starting at around £100, can parents really afford to keep up with this trend during a recession? Charming Angels carried out our own survey of parents over the last few months and found that it’s a split decision.
During the recession parents say that 46 % will spend under £99 on their kids party, with 54 % of parents spending over £100. Of the 54% a staggering 38% will spend between £100 - £149 on their kid’s party. (Charming Angels research, 2009)
So even when times are hard what is making parents spend their hard earned cash on children’s entertainment? Fifty percent said the entertainer did something different, with a further thirty eight percent saying it was less stress on the parents and it allowed them to relax.
So if you have got a party to plan how can you make it a success?
♥ Ask your child what they are interested in and then set a budget.
♥ Don’t be too ambitious on the number of children invited to the party. Fewer than 20 is ideal.
♥ You don’t need a large venue for a party. Home is the perfect place for creating the right atmosphere.
♥ If the weather is good, get outside. Even in September, get under a gazebo in the back garden!
♥ Make sure the entertainment is age appropriate. Toddlers are fidgety, so need play and craft activities to keep them interested.
♥ 2 hours of fun is more than enough and still allows time for some party food.
♥ Good entertainment is the key to a successful party. So try to have something different from the norm and then it’s sure to be a big success.
♥ Hiring a children’s entertainer is a very popular option for parties and eases the stress for parents.
♥ Although entertainers may seem initially expensive many offer excellent value for money.
♥ Look out for entertainers who offer that little bit more, like invitations and gift bags at no extra cost.
♥ Another way to save money is to book the party well in advance and opt for a date that is mid week or during school holidays. Some entertainers will offer discounts for the above options.
♥ On the day have activities well paced and be aware of children’s attention spans. Short bursts of having to listen followed by lots of doing, keeps them enthused and enjoying themselves.
Louise Graham is a mum of one and director of Charming Angels, a children’s party entertainer offering jewellery and craft making parties. www.charmingangelsparties.co.uk
How to make a children's party a success
