Help me plan a 3rd birthday party!

[Thistledew]

I feel clueless.

The parameters are as follows:

End of July, so good chance of it being warm and dry.
It will be at our house, a small terrace with a small garden.

Invitees will be 3 DC aged about 3, one 4yrs, one 6yrs and two 8yrs.

I was thinking of having it from 2-5pm, with food and cake at 4pm.

But what to do from 2-4?

Should I arrange party games or just have some of DS's toys out to play with?

A paddling pool is an option.

Any advice gratefully received!

With that range of ages I wouldn't plan anything too formal. Put out the garden toys. Get some of the giant bubble wands, all kids love bubbles. Encourage the 8 year olds to maybe set up obstacle courses. Maybe do a treasure hunt. The older ones can help and ensure everyone gets a prize. DD1 is 7 yrs older than DD2 and she liked to feel like my helper rather than one of the guests iyswim. Have an indoor plan B - decorating cupcakes, dance competition. Have a couple of prizes on standby so if it starts getting a bit wild or someone is feeling left out you can do a quick pass the parcel or sleeping lions to get things on an even keel again.