Hi my ds has just started at a new nursery and I have decided to have a 4th birthday party for him in a couple of weeks time. I have booked the leisure centre and room and sent out the invites to the 16 children in his group (none of which I know as new nursery school this term). 8 have accepted so far.
Now starting to panic a bit so would be really grateful if anyone had any advice!
We have use of a sort of toddler gym including bouncy castle for the first 1hr 15 mins. Then 45 in a separate room for food (me to provide). There was also an option to pay extra for a face painter or extra party host but I am a bit skint so we aren't doing those. So my questions.
Is 45 mins too long for just food and should I do some extra games as well. (I think is we'd paid for the party host they would have done these in the food room but I would need to organise myself).
Do I need to have music playing if so what?
Do I need extra helpers apart from myself and husband - I also have a 2yr old?
will parents expect feeding and/or tea and coffee?
I will do party bags but do children usually get balloons as well?
Is pass the parcel logistically ok for 16 children? what other "easy games" are there?
I am really grateful for any advice! My ds has only been to one party at a venue before and that was a church hall so I am a bit in the dark as to what people will expect!