Here are Nigel’s tips for planning a SuPer FuN children’s birthday party:

Date/Time
Nigel knows the best date for a birthday party is the day of the child’s birthday, but it may be wise to move the date of the party to the weekend nearest the child’s birthday. Children may be too tired after school or late in the day to really enjoy the party. (Don’t forget your adult guests. They may be too exhausted after a long day on the job to enjoy themselves - and the show is for children of all ages!)

Nigel recommends:
Morning shows for children under five years in age.
Noon shows (rather than 2pm or later) for children five and six years old.

This time schedule will allow enough time for the childern to calm down well before their bedtime.

Venue
Where you have the party depends on the size of your home and the number of children and guests you plan to invite. For small, intimate gatherings a personal residence is perfect. If your guest list is large, you may want to consider renting a local hall or community center. The cost may be much less than you might think and imagine how roomy this venue would be for playing games and having fun!

Party Structure
Nigel recommends a children’s party last for around one and a half hours for children under five and two hours for the children over five.

Children 5 & Under:
Games/entertainment - 30 minutes
Food/refreshments and singing “HaPpY BiRtHdAy To You!” - 30 minutes

Children 5 & Over :
Games/entertainment - 45 minutes
Food/refreshments and singing “HaPpY BiRtHdAy To You!” - 30 minutes