Organising the party.
 There are a number of things to consider
when organising a party for young children. Food, games,
time and number of guests are just some of the details
to be identified to ensure your party goes off without
a hitch. Below you'll find tips and information to assist
you with your party organisation.
Suggested party guidelines.
The table below can be used as a rule
of thumb. Each child and their family is different and
may need to vary things such as the number of guests they
invite.
| Age |
Guests |
Duration |
Time of day |
| 1 |
2 |
1.5 hrs |
10.30-12.00 |
| 2 |
3-4 |
1.5 hrs |
10.30-12.00 |
| 3 |
4-5 |
1.5 hrs |
10.30-12.00 |
| 4 |
4-5 |
2 hrs |
10.30-12.30 |
| 5 |
5-6 |
2 hrs |
11.00- 1.00 |
It may also be possible to have a separate
party with family members and other adults.
To avoid the hassle of organising complicated luncheons,
consider morning teas or gourmet "hamburger / pizza" lunches.
These are simple and quick to prepare.
To save you more work you could consider outsourcing part or all of your party.
There are many organisations catering to the needs of parties. Use the telephone
to find the right one for you.
Party Tips
- Prepare 'party food' - avoid
wasting your time cooking nutritous food that won't
be eaten
- Avoid preparing
too much food - children don't eat that much
- Avoid red or green cordial / jelly
- Purchase small cups
- Soft drinks can be fun to drink -
but in excess can make them sick
- Milk - be aware of children
who may not be able to drink milk. Look for milk alternatives
- Bottled
juices are a great idea - It can be difficult to avoid
children drinking from others cups / bottles
- Consider
labelling bottles for older children
- Have plenty of
cool water and drinks - children get really thirsty
running around.
Party Theme and Cake Tips
Get your child as involved in deciding
the theme or making a cake as you can. For smaller children
pick a theme that they can relate to. For example pick
their favourite character or animal. Dress up theme parties
are popular for older children - Barbie, Batman etc.
DIY cake
Refer to party theme and cake
books for ideas. You can hire or buy cake moulds. It doesn't
hurt to have a trial run!!! If a DIY cake doesn't appeal
to you there are plenty of stores that will make a custom
cake for you.
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