Kids Party Entertainment Ideas: From Entertainers to DIY
The secret to a good kids' party is keeping them busy. A plan for every half hour avoids chaos.
Here are ideas from hired entertainers to games you can run yourself.
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Hired entertainment
- Children's entertainer or magician
- Bouncy castle or soft play hire
- Animal handling
- Science show
- Face painter
- Character visit (check it's licensed)
DIY entertainment
- Party games by age. View guide
- Treasure hunt
- Craft table
- Decorate your own cupcake
- Dance competition
- Pass the parcel
A simple running order
- Arrival activity (colouring or crafts)
- Two or three active games
- Food
- Entertainer or quieter game
- Cake and candles
- Party bags. View guide
Key things to remember
- Book popular entertainers early, especially for weekends.
- Check entertainers have appropriate checks and insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you entertain kids at a party?
Plan games, a craft table, food and either an entertainer or a big final activity.
How long should a kids' party be?
Around two hours is plenty for younger children.
What is a good example of kids party entertainment ideas?
"Children's entertainer or magician" is one of 18 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.
Can I copy these messages word for word?
Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.
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Party decorations and cards
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