3rd birthday party tips

[bluechameleon]

We're thinking of doing a birthday party in the local church hall for my son's 3rd birthday. He will just have started preschool and as drop offs and pick ups will be done by the childminder we thought it would be a good way to meet some of the children and parents in his group. Has anyone done this type of party at this age? Would you hire some soft play stuff? A bouncy castle? Or just do some games and a little tea? Our house isn't very big so that isn't a good option. Thanks

I would probably hire an entertainer and then do a party tea.

Games are difficult at that age because they are terrible losers, a whole pre-school is going to mean large numbers so a big gap between turns, they won't fully understand the rules. Unless you're a teacher/natural with large groups of children I think it would be very stressful.

Bouncy castles are dangerous with that many young children and again stressful as you tend to all the bumped heads and tears from over excited 3 year olds!

It's worth remembering that if your son is 3 in September, most of the other kids will still only be 2, which is very little for a birthday party.

Plan for their parents to stay, so put on food/drinks/seats for the adults. Plan for siblings to possibly come as well. Plan for the ones who want to drop and run, are you prepared for looking after a 2 year old you've never met? If not, insist on the invitation that parents need to stay.

Have fun!!