For example, planning the decorations for an outdoor competitive adventure party is very different from the decor one might expect at a princess party. When decorating, consider banners, balloons, streamers, or other colorful decorations!

For more active children, consider a scavenger hunt that takes place both inside and outside. For older children, consider a scavenger hunt with cryptic riddles and multiple steps. For younger children, consider a scavenger hunt that can be accomplished by all of them together, with simple, easy-to-follow clues.

Consider how messy the activity will be. A very messy activity might be better outside! Make sure you buy all of the supplies in advance!

If you are throwing a party that involves water, make sure all of the children can swim! Make sure to bring sunscreen if you are going to be out in the sun all day.

Remember: magic is just as much about confidence as it is about anything else! If your child loves magic, consider buying special magic decks or other objects. These can help you create even more elaborate magic tricks.

Try to teach a few adults to face paint, so you can paint more than one child’s face at a time! Also, make sure there is at least one adult supervising while you face paint.

If you do hire such a service, make sure you follow to all of their rules.

Don’t forget to purchase paper plates and plastic cutlery – you don’t want to be stuck using real plates for the food or cake. Keep in mind that most children can be picky eaters![3] X Research source

These snacks are likely to delight the children, but they do take quite a bit of added planning. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to pull them off!