Is your child’s birthday about to roll around again? Eek, what wacky idea will they come up with this year? A theme is a great way to get the ball rolling with the party planning – once you and your child have settled on an (achievable) theme, sorting out the decorations, food and party games/activities should follow quite easily.

• Cost-saving tip: why not convince your partner or a willing aunt or uncle to dress up as a character that fits the party theme instead of hiring a professional entertainer? Source a costume on the Net, paint their face, and you’ve got an instant drawcard for teeny guests. They’ll never guess it’s Uncle Nick inside that bear costume!
• Here are some theme ideas to consider – just click on each link for more in-depth info about how to create each individual theme:
• Pirates – Pirate parties will probably be most popular with boys. Make it a swash-buckling day of adventure, with treasure hunts and games inspired by the high seas (who will walk the plank first?).
• Disco fever – This theme is one for little ladies who love to groove. A fun chance to glam up, wear make-up (if you allow it) and dance to all those songs that make us parents cringe. But the girls will love it, which is what matters on party day!
• Princess – Especially popular with younger girls who are four, five or six years old. Princess parties are easy for parents as most little girls already have a princess outfit in their dress-up box. There are also stacks of princess prizes (e.g. wands, stickers) you can source easily at your local variety store or bargain shop.
• Jungle fever – Calling all Tarzans and Janes! Young adventure lovers will have fun finding their way through a maze of vines and leaves (get busy with craft materials, Mum), spotting jungle (stuffed) animals along the way. Disney movies should provide plenty of inspiration!
• Sports – The perfect party for active kids, particularly boys. Head to the bowling alley, set up a cricket pitch, get riding at the bike track, skateboard at a local skate park, or go crazy on waterslides.