1. Think about your budget

Fun, hassle-free birthday parties for kids don’t need to cost an arm and a leg. We recommend that you set a ‘per child’ budget which allows you to easily compare any birthday party options with different providers. Once you decide on your budget, stick to it. There are many money conscious solutions available. With a mix of activity catering, and a bit of DIY, you’ll have a party planned in no time! 

2. Ask your kids about a theme, and set limits

Of course, the party is all about the birthday child, so ask them whether they want a particular theme for their party. We recommend that you think of a few ideas first to give them some options to choose from, that way there’s no disappointment risk if they ask for something too extravagant. Let them know in advance the maximum number of friends they can invite, and consider explaining to them why this is the case (i.e. costs). 

3. Finalise a time and date

We recommend picking a date that is within a reasonable time surrounding the child’s actual birthday, i.e. the weekend before or after is a great choice. Maybe even check with their closest friend if they are available on that date to avoid any clashes in their schedule, and thus disappointment. 

When thinking about a time, it’s important to consider attention span and meals. I.e. by holding it in the middle of the afternoon, parents of kids attending won’t expect a major meal to be provided. 2 – 3 hours as a rough guide for party length is great, especially for younger kids to avoid kids getting bored, tired, or homesick.  It allows enough time for socialising, games/activities, presents, snacks and cake. 

4. Venue

When considering a venue, the most important thing to think about is convenience and mess. If you have it at your home, it can be very convenient, but means you’ll have lots of mess at the end to clean up. Having it at another venue, such as Bricks 4 Kidz, means that you can just turn up at the start, leave at the end and not have to worry about the mess. 

Having it at home, or at a park can be more affordable and gives you more control/flexibility on how the day is run, however does include a lot of preparation and clean up afterwards. If you choose this option, you’ll be busy hosting so ensure you have an extra pair of hands to help with the setup and clean up. Assigning a photographer is also a good idea to free-up some of your time, even a partner, another parent, or older sibling would be suitable as a professional can be expensive. 

Having the party at a venue that caters for kids’ birthday parties is a great option as most things are taken care of for you. There are many great options including cinemas, public pools, bowling alleys or lego activity centres such as Bricks 4 Kidz – a fantastic option for creativity through fun themes. Not only are the kids entertained, but party packages often include a private room, food and beverages and a cake. Also, an indoor centre means bad weather won’t ruin the day.

5. Who to invite?

Once you know where you’re having your party you can decide on the number of guests. Sit with your child and compile a guest list. Then decide on paper or electronic invitations. Fortunately, when you book at a venue like Bricks 4 Kidz, digital party invitations are included which you can print at home and save money. Once this is decided, ensure they are sent out at least 2 weeks prior to the party. Ask for an RSVP so you know who is coming and check for any dietary requirements.

6. Activities

If you hold the party at home, include some short games such as musical chairs, pin the tail on the donkey, charades, bocce or a scavenger hunt.

A Bricks 4 Kidz party would be tailored to the theme of your choosing. For example, a Ninja themed party would involve an exciting group challenge of building towers that Ninjas can climb, creative 3D colour builds of their favourite Ninja warriors and super-fun 2D Mosaic builds of their favourite hero, plus of course so much more. Bricks 4 Kidz parties are always customised for you!

7. Catering

Yum! Keep it simple and fun and in small portions – kids don’t sit still for long so something they can grab in one hand is best. There are loads of party food options including favourites such as pizza, nuggets and chips as well as other options including mini quiches, meatballs, small sandwiches, and fruit. You could also opt for some healthier options like sushi, carrot sticks/crackers and dip. Remember to cater for any guests with allergies or specific dietary requirements.

In terms of drinks, soft drinks are easy and other options include a bowl of fruit punch or milkshakes. Have plenty of water on hand – perhaps a large water dispenser with ice and sliced fruit in it to make it fun. Water is especially important if the kids are really active, they’ll need to keep hydrated!

8. Cake!

This can be daunting to organise but don’t feel pressured to provide something mind blowing that breaks your budget. Have a go at making a cake yourself – there are many ideas online that are simple yet very impressive. Your child will love something that suits their tastes at the time such as a favourite movie character, superhero or sport.

Alternatively, consider providing plain cupcakes, bowls of icing and lollies and let the guests decorate their own cupcake. Then pop a candle in each and sing happy birthday! 

9. Thank You Gifts

A small thank you for the guests is a nice touch. Rather than send them home with lollies, you may like to give a small toy or game – just make sure it is age appropriate and safe. Some ideas are crayons, a small book or a gift card. You may not need to provide gifts if you incorporated a craft activity and guests are taking home their finished product. If you’re going to an activity centre such as Bricks 4 Kidz, we have optional add ons like gift bags, personalised cookies, mini-figures and more! 

By now your mind is probably ticking over your options and buzzing with enthusiasm and creative ideas! Sit down with the birthday child and plan a day they’ll remember.

Bricks 4 Kidz has a range of kids party packages to ensure the day is a success, so speak with the experts for an awesome day of fun!