PARTIES Final Tip Focus on fun and presence, not perfection. Kids remember: Laughing with friends, running around, eating cake and feeling celebrated. They don’t remember: Fancy balloon arches or designer character plates. Middle-ground: Splash out in one area and save in the rest! i.e. pay out for venue OR pay out for the extras. 4. Plan Simple, Low-Cost Games Kids don’t need expensive entertainment. Ideas include: • Scavenger / Treasure hunt • DIY piñata • Sack races / Obstacle course • Musical chairs / Statues • Simon Says • Beanbag toss Birthdays on a budget 1. Keep the Guest List Small Fewer kids = fewer goodie bags, less food, fewer activities. Instead of inviting the whole class, invite: • A few close friends • Cousins only • As many guests as the child's age (e.g. 6 guests for a 6th birthday) 2. Host at a Free Location Avoid paid venues. Great free or nearly free spaces include: • Home or Garden • Public park • Neighbourhood community room • Nature trail (great for scavenger hunts) 3. Choose a Theme You Can DIY Pick themes that are easy to decorate with handmade items or things you already have. Examples: • Movie night • Dino dig • Superheroes • Art party • Pokémon • Princess tea party 5. Combine Food & Activities A themed food craft is always fun. Such as: • Make mini pizzas • DIY tacos / fajitas • Build-your own sundaes • Decorate cupcakes 6. Save on the Cake Instead of buying a Supermarket or bakery cake: • Bake one at home & decorate nicely • Make from scratch or use a box mix • Have cupcakes instead of a full cake • Make a brownie or sponge traybake 7. Skip Goodie Bags Or do low-cost alternatives, like: • One nicer item per child (e.g. a book colouring pack) • A party activity they take home (art project or slime) • A bar of chocolate/ bag of sweets (sort after the piñata has been played) • Or skip favours entirely, totally acceptable now. 8. Decorate Smart Avoid themed plates, cups, banners, etc. They add up fast. Instead: • Buy solid-colour partyware • Print your own banners or signs • Use a pound shop for decorations • Borrow folding tables/chairs if needed Just a few well-placed themed items make the whole party feel decorated. 9. Use Digital Invites Skip printed invitations. Free options: • Use www.canva.com to design one and send out via WhatsApp • Create a Facebook event • Email or text • Finish the Lyrics • Just Dance using YouTube! 10. Shop Strategically The best party deals are usually at: • Supermarkets • Facebook Marketplace or Vinted • Look around charity shops You can often buy like-new party décor used cheaply or free. 22
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