Timings for 6 yr old's party at home

[odetothewestwing]

dd will be six soon and we are having a small party at home to which she has invited 6 friends. So - 8 in total (incl. ds).

Had been thinking of a Saturday afternoon, perhaps 4.00-5.30pm (on the assumption that Sat mornings can often be hectic with swimming / other activities)

Or should I go for 2 hours?

The rough plan is some arts/crafts upon arrival that I guess could take up half an hour min (I have a couple of things for them to do) - a few party games and the party tea.

What do you think?

I did 3 hours for my lad's 7th birthday party. I do think an hoiur and a half is too short, they'll hardly have time to do anything. The party tea and then the cake and candle blowing etc will take up about an hour. I think 2 hours at the very least is reasonable. Honestly, it'll go in no time.

I'd say 4-6 at least, bearing in mind that some people are usually very late IME.

Thanks, guys. The last party we did at home a couple of years ago was 2 hours and was for 14 and that one DID go quickly! Think I have just lost a wee bit of confidence. Will go for 2 hours so that we can have plenty of fun, perhaps 4-6, would you say that's a good time of day?

LOL! Good point. I'll make that 3pm-5pm, by 6pm behaviour could be on a steep downhill slope (and that's just my two year old!).

2 hours absolutely plenty.

ime eating and cake takes no longer than 1/2 an hour tops, but I would time it so you have some time after food to cut up cake and put it in party bag - if you are doing that.

craft activities often don't take as long as you anticipate, so have some extras up your sleeve - say make some biscuits whicj they can ice, or a couple of extra party games that take little preparation - eg objects on a tray

I found a great website that offer free party plans for children's parties. You don't need to stick to them religiously, but they make for a good guide. Try this link Pirate Theme Party Plan

Good Luck!