Party Tips

Swlogo.gif (2490 bytes) Party Tips

There are a number of things to consider when hosting a party for children. The points below will assist you in hosting a party which will run smoother and be remembered by your young guests.

Catering

	Don't over cater - Remember children have small tummies.
	Rather have a party packet for each child which ensures that they all get the same and can take their left over loot home.
	Do have an ample supply of cool drinks available - *especially* during the hot summer months.

Entertainer

Be sure to book your entertainer early - definitely no later than 2 weeks before - remember you still have to send out invitations.

The magician will need to know how many children, and the age spread - this is so he can tailor his show to suit the age group to be entertained.

Most magicians will not perform outdoors - the reasons for this are:

	Rain damages expensive equipment
	Wind blows expensive equipment off tables.
	The sun is very hot and aggressive and it is not healthy for children or performer to sit out in the sun.
	Either the performer or children will have to look into the sun.

Do prepare a performing area in the family room, lounge or garage. Your entertainer will advise you what his requirements are.

The magician will normally have a special routine which involves the Birthday Child - this will present an ideal opportunity for photographs - discuss this with your entertainer.

Videotaping of the Magic Show is not encouraged. However still photography is welcomed.

Party Plan

A party with a plan will run smoothly.

Decide on how long you want to make the party - two hours is probably a reasonable length.

A typical party plan would look like this:

14:00 Party starts

14:00 to 14:30 allow time for late comers to arrive.

14:30 to 15:00 Magic show.

15:00 to 15:15 Cutting the birthday cake and opening presents.

15:15 to 16:00 Time to tuck into the party packets and free play time or play some party games.

16:00 End of party

The Invitation

The invitations should be sent out two weeks before the party. Remember to state the party start time, venue and also what entertainment you will be having.

A typical party invitation would look like this:

You are invited

to Mary Jane's

6th Birthday Party

on Saturday

21st May

The Party starts at 2 PM

and finishes at 4 PM

A Magic Show will be presented by

Shaun Wilson

If you will be coming to my Party
please phone my Mom on 031 555 5555

I do hope you can come to my Party
Mary Jane

Party Games

	Pass the Parcel
	Musical Statues
	Treasure Hunts
	Musical Chairs

Be very careful of games (e.g. musical Chairs) which progressively eliminate children from playing. The younger children do not understand why they can no longer participate. As their numbers grow, so does their resentment - they may then disrupt the game. It is better to play games which keep all the children involved for the whole game - pass the parcel is probably a good example of a game which keeps the children involved

If you give all these points consideration your party will be a success and enjoyed and remembered by your young guests. May you have a Magical Birthday Party.