The ultimate guide to hosting a kids' birthday parties
As parents, with our little ones that will last a lifetime is something we are constantly striving to do. And there's no better opportunity to clock up special moments than during their birthday party. Seeing your child be celebrated and sharing a toast with your partner for making it through another year of parenting is a really important and well-deserved ritual.
But planning a kids’ birthday party can be stressful, especially if you’re not a natural host. And why do they roll around so damn quickly every year? Didn’t we just host her second birthday party?
If you’re about to throw your child a shindig, you might wonder: what are the do’s and don’ts of kids’ birthday parties? Well, crack open the sneaky lolly bag you didn’t pinch from your kid and tuck it into a slice of cake 🎂 because we’ve broken it all down for you…
Don’t be afraid to outsource what you’re not good at!
Hands up if you’ve ever tried to bake a birthday cake with your partner the night before your child’s birthday party. Keep your hand up if it ended with you spilling bright blue food dye all over their slippers and one of you storming off in a huff. Just me? Ok then, as you were…
The point is, if you’re no MasterChef in the kitchen, then don’t stitch yourself up with the impossible task of creating a stunning birthday cake when you can’t even bake brownies without burning them. While Hamish Blake might make it look like a cakewalk (sorry, I couldn’t help it), birthday cakes can be a real struggle for mere mortals. The good news is so many amazing cake designers can bring your vision to life. Or, if you still want to make your own birthday cake but don’t have the creative know-how to make it pretty, there are loads of great custom cake kits that walk you through the whole process from start to finish.
Outsourcing can extend far beyond the cake. Choosing play centres and party packages that will take care of absolutely everything is another great way to free up your valuable time – leave the planning to them. Because let’s face it; sometimes we just don’t have the mental energy to worry about making lolly bags and thinking of fun activities to entertain all their friends. They’ve got it sorted from securing a reserved party area to managing party games!
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Say YES to offers of help
When deep in party planning mode, it’s easy to think we can manage everything ourselves. But more often than not, you end up running around the shops like a headless chicken the day before the big event.
When your friends, family members, or even random party guests offer to bring a plate to help share the load, grab the offer with both hands! They don’t have to make anything fancy or labour-intensive. When in doubt, you can’t go past the old faithful party food crowd-pleaser of fairy bread 🧚.
Remember it’s about THEM and not Instagram
Kids’ parties can often feel like a competitive sport (one with no house tap beer or house wine). And hey, no judgment if you want to make your little one’s day an affair to remember. Life is short, and milestones should be celebrated. But for so many of us, we can’t go all out year after year, especially for the special gift of a kids’ party—because, let’s be honest, every day of your life is going all out for your kids from their very first breath!
It’s easy to fall into a comparison trap on Instagram but just remember: it’s about the birthday child, not you—and certainly not social media. You don’t need all the bells and whistles to give them a memorable day. It can still be a basic but love-filled affair. Kids are easily pleased, don’t forget. All you need is some good party food, fun party games, and, of course, cake!
Do pick a theme
Choosing a theme will make your job as a private host, party planner, and loving parent as easy as possible and way more hassle-free. If you’re struggling for inspiration, be guided by what your child is into. If they’re old enough, you can even workshop a theme together.
Maybe they’re into Frozen, maybe they’re mad for fire trucks, or perhaps they’re obsessed with all things Bluey. Having a theme will not only make the party super fun, but it will also help you land on decorations, even if it’s as simple as a blue balloon arrangement and Bluey-themed lolly bags.
Do plan activities suitable for all ages
It’s crucial to choose activities that cater to your guests’ age range. While pinning the tail on the donkey might be great for younger kids, some adults and older children might prefer more active games or crafts. Consider a mix of activities to keep everyone engaged and having fun.
Don’t forget about allergies and dietary restrictions
With increasing awareness of allergies, it’s important to consider dietary restrictions when planning the menu. Whether it’s nut allergies, gluten intolerance, or vegan preferences, ensure options are available so every child can enjoy the party without worry.
Also, ensure you have enough food and drinks for the guests, especially the little ones. When they’re spending hours running around playing, don’t make the mistake of underestimating how many drinks the kids will go through.
Don’t be naive enough to account for one drink each – we’re talking heaps of water and juice boxes, but maybe steer clear of high-sugar options like soft drinks!
Do set a realistic budget
It’s easy to get carried away with party planning, but setting a budget early can help you make decisions without overspending. Consider what’s most important for your child’s enjoyment and focus your resources there, whether it’s on decorations, entertainment, or the cake.
Don’t underestimate the power of timing
Timing can make or break a party. Choose a time that works well for young guests — early afternoon or late morning often works best to avoid nap times and ensure everyone is fresh and energetic.
Do plan for the unexpected
Despite your best efforts, things may not go exactly as planned. Prepare for contingencies like bad weather (if your party is outdoors), unexpected spills, or last-minute cancellations. A flexible attitude will help you navigate any surprises smoothly.
Don't overcomplicate it; simple can be just as special
This year for my daughter’s third birthday, our mantra was simplicity! Between work, travel, and a sick baby, my partner and I just didn’t have the time to go above and beyond. That didn’t mean I still didn’t panic at the 11th hour and worry we didn’t have enough activities planned to entertain the kids. But the truth is, even if it’s simple, kids will not give two hoots.
We purchased a $59 jumping castle from Kmart, which the guests loved. Then, we set up a painting station with plaster figurines we got from the discounted shelf at Big W, complete with old T-shirts as smocks. Instead of making lolly bags, we scattered treats around the garden so the kids could find them on a “treasure hunt.”
The result? I think it’s the best party we’ve ever hosted, and it’s the one we spent the least amount of time planning! One mum remarked to me during the first hour of the treasure hunt that her son had never been more engaged in an activity. I think I’ll make the treasure hunt a rolling birthday party tradition. Only next year will I be snapping up all the Easter eggs when they go on the discount shelf.
Don't open presents at the party
While your child might be excited to be bombarded with gifts, remind them to wait until after the party is over to unwrap them. Your guests won’t want to sit around watching your child unwrap their gifts and it will take up a large chunk of time at the party.
Set up a gift table and direct all presents to be left there. You can also tell your child ahead of the event that they’ll get to open all their presents when the party is over, so the celebrations can keep going!
Tip: Keep a list of who gave your child what so you can shoot them a personalised thank you text later.
Don't forget to invite siblings, too
To make your guests’ lives easier, let them know that their other children are more than welcome to attend the party. They’ll be grateful that they don’t have to find another activity for their other kids and can bring them to the celebrations instead.
Cater for the parents, too
Another important note to make is that with kids’ parties and special occasions, you often invite two or three people—your child’s friend and their parents—so making sure you account for the extra guests in terms of food and space is crucial!
DO have fun
Don’t forget to actually enjoy the day! Playing host can be stressful, so make sure you stop to spend some quality time with your birthday girl or boy and make some precious memories together. Ask a friend to play photographer and take family photos while you sing Happy Birthday.
While it can be easy to compare yours to other families’ birthday parties, don’t forget that your little one won’t notice the colour scheme and won’t care about a wonky birthday cake — they’ll just be so happy to be surrounded by love.
So good luck! Remember less really is more, there’s no shame in outsourcing, and it’s all about making special memories.
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