Photo Credit: Flick

A birthday party is a great boost to the self-esteem of any child. Making your child feel like a king or queen for a day is the best and most lasting gift that you can give him or her. For sure, one of the essential ingredients of a successful children's party is organisation. If you plan ahead, the party will be better and more fun. Here are 8 ways on how to successfully organise a children's birthday party.

1. Pick a theme

It is necessary that you start with a theme around which you can organise decorations, invitations, crafts, games, and food. Both you, as a parent, and your kid will enjoy making plans that actually reflect his or her interests — whether it is a sports theme, an animal adventure, dinosaur bash, backyard beach picnic, an art party, or a trip back in time. Unless he or she wants something that is not appropriate, you should give your child creative freedom. It is paramount to sit down with your kid at the table with a paper and pen and list down the ideas that you both like. One of the things that is very popular is creating a funny family T-shirt that will be an absolute hit with your friend

2. Pick a venue

In case your apartment or your home is not suitable for a children`s birthday party, you can consider other many off-site alternatives that come with obvious benefits that include being able to come back to a clean home after the kids have been picked up. For a small fee, it is possible for you to reserve space in an adventure park or community recreation centre.

3. Get invitations that match the theme

You need to make a guest list for a preschooler. However, once your kid is over 3 or 4 years, you should consult him or her. The invitations can either be homemade or store-bought and should set the event mood. Older children may even enjoy making invitations out of computer templates, puzzle pieces, or paper dolls, depending on the chosen theme. Apart from obvious information such as directions, date, and time, you should include some special details such as ``all parents should accompany their children`` or ``bring a swimsuit``.

4. Plan the party food

For a small birthday party, ice cream and cake is the only refreshment that you require. Nearly all kids look at the cake as the focal point of the entire birthday ritual. Therefore, let them help make it or choose it from a bakery. In case you decide to order a cake, you should ensure that you place your order at least one week in advance. What other foods will you serve — snacks or meal? You should consider preparation time, the ages of the children that you will serve, and where they will be eating. Just select foods that are easy to make & clean up. For instance, individually packaged juice boxes and snacks do not go waste in case they are unopened and are easy to serve.

5. Game Planning

Only choose the games that are appropriate for the age of your children. Do not give prizes unless a child wins one. Ensure that you pair the games with the party theme. Be creative. You can go online and search for ideas.

6. Entertainment

Depending on the attention spans and ages of your guests, entertainment can be a big hit. However, younger children, those under 4 or 5 years, may be bored or frightened by performances that go on for more than forty-five (45) minutes.

7. Organise help

Do not go it alone. Every activity will be easier if you have assistance. For sure, a relative, spouse, babysitter, friends, or neighbour assist with any activity as well as serving & clean up.

8. Presents

You should decide before the actual day of the birthday party whether or not your kid will open the presents afterwards or during the party when his or her friends are present.

The above are eight ways on how to successfully organise a children's birthday party. As a parent, you should take your time to organise a birthday celebration for your children.