3 year old boy's birthday party

[littlestar]

We are planning a small (6-8 kids) birthday party at home for ds next month. Budget and space are limited and all the parties we have been to so far have involved church halls, bouncy castles and entertainment! I would really appreciate any creative suggestions and practical do's and don'ts regarding games, food and themes (I am trying to avoid bob the builder if possible!)

I would say no theme, just lots of colourful balloons, banners, paper chains etc. My DC totally love their bubble machine too and it only cost £1o
Clear as much floor space as possible and make sure anything breakable is stashed away.
You could do 'make your own' sandwiches, with different bread rolls, wraps, pitta etc and various filling. Messy but they really like it.

Will most of the parents be staying for the party?

I know you said you wanted to avoid Bob but a construction party worked well for DS2's 3rd. We had all the construction toys out in the lounge and play dough and colouring in the kitchen, the kids just got on with it. food was party boxes sitting on the floor. At this age most don't 'get' games but may sit still for pass the parcel.

Have just had party at home for dd(4) and 12 of her friends. I must say I had a moment of panic, just before they arrived as I wondered if I would be able to physically fit them all into our not particularly large living room. However, all was fine and the party went better than I thought it would.
Games we played = farmers in his den; pass the parcel x 2; pirates keys (the party had a peter pan / pirates sort of theme}; musical bumps; musical statues.
Food = sandwiches / chocolate crispie cakes / fairy cakes / sausage rolls / mini meringues / shortbread faces - they ate their food on a picnic rug.
Good tips - enough (but not too many) willing helpers - I had two older dds who were great (had to pay them though ) and clear as much space (we moved furniture into another room, but appreicate this isn't always an option) and particularly get rid of breakables.
Oh and a nice bottle of wine for you afterwards.