Christmas is one of the most magical time of years for those who celebrate it. If you have kids in the house or the family, it is the perfect opportunity to throw them a magical party to create one of those all-important core memories for them to hold on to. Here is a quick guide to planning the ultimate Christmas party for the little ones.
Plan as Early as Possible
Early planning and preparation are essential for a good party. Write down your guest list and get the invitations out a few months in advance. Set up a reminder service to send out a week before the date, in case people have forgotten as this does happen more often than you might think! If you are hiring entertainment, given how popular this time of year is for festivities and entertainment avenues, this also needs to be booked well in advance. If possible, aim to find entertainers at least six months before your actual party to avoid being disappointed by lack of availability. It is a busy time of year, so people need as much warning as you can give them, regardless of whether it is guests or service.
Party Favours Are a Must
The end of any party where children are the main guests is a difficult point of transition. Children do not have the emotional or mental development in terms of regulation to fully comprehend why something so fun has to finish. Going home will be hard, and it will be fuelled by all sorts of excitement that is naturally circulating around the time of year. That is why a parting gift like a favour or a little goody bag is the perfect solution. You can add cute ideas like Santa’s magic key, reindeer food, and even a Christmas cracker or chocolate coin. The children will love it, as it is a great distraction from the stress of the party finishing and parents will really appreciate the kind gesture!
Think About Games to Play: Entertainment is Key
Without any clear agenda, a party is just a playdate. While the organic play is important, the focus of the day should be some organised fun like pin the nose on the snowman, or seasonal musical bumps. There is an endless number of Christmas songs to choose from if you want to throw a disco dance party (complete with disco lights). There are also external options to consider like a magician, or entertainer dressed as an elf to act during the party.
A Visit from Santa is Always a Hit
While it is important to remind children that Christmas is not all about the presents, Santa is certainly a key focus point for them regardless. That is why there will be no bigger talking point than a visit from the man himself! You don’t have to pay through the roof prices for an agency appearance, as a costume from a party shop will do the job just fine if you have an adult willing to wear it. This is a great chance to hand out the party favours and sparkle a little festive joy.
Have a Solid Budget
Try not to overspend, because there are going to be lots of other expenses at this time of year. This is where a solid budget will help. Take a look at all your outgoings and figure out a number that works for the party. Typical things you have to pay for include:
- Party food and drink
- Favours and entertainment
- Decorations
- Outfits and party clothes
- Invitations, though there are options to save costs in this area
Find a Great Christmas Film
For a wind-down option, turn on the television and put on a Christmas film. They don’t have to watch the whole film, it might just be a peaceful interlude if everything gets overwhelming. It is always a smart move to provide a zone of comfort for the kids that are struggling to get involved or find the party setting over-stimulating.
Get Festive Food On the Table
Festive food is one of the easiest to create. Whether it is a yule log style cake or a tree shaped pastry, there are so many ideas to get inspired by! Oranges, apples, and raisins are all healthy, traditional snacks if you are looking to insert some nutritional snacks into the arena too. You can make your own, or if you’re short on time any local supermarket is bound to have a selection of party food and festive snacks to pick from.
The ultimate Christmas party for kids has to be fun, bright, and merry. Just don’t forget the entertainment!
