All Mums and Dads know how difficult it can be to keep their own kids amused for an afternoon, let alone 20 children all high on the e-numbers in birthday cake. When in doubt, call in the professionals! 

Professional childrens entertainers will know how to keep your small party guests amused without causing mass destruction. Booking a magician, clown, puppeteer or balloon modeller will keep the little darlings seated and gazing in wonder at the fun or magical show evolving in front of their very eyes.  

The choice of entertainer should be based on a few factors; your guests age range, their preferred entertainment, the time allotted for the entertainer and any alternative amusements you have pencilled in for them.  If you are hiring a bouncy castle or other inflatable game, organising a

treasure hunt or playing sports, we would recommend this happens before tea. After the birthday tea, the children can then happily settle down with full bellies to watch a show, such as a clown act, an animal show, magic tricks or Punch & Judy. This sedate time after eating could also be used by playing simple inactive games such as pass the parcel, while some children get their faces painted by a professional face painter.  

When booking your entertainment, ask your entertainer for advice on any issues that you are uncertain with, after all there is no point booking an educational show suitable for 3 year olds when your audience are 10 to 11 years old! With a wealth of professional knowledge, your magician, clown or other kids entertainer should be able to advise you on most aspects of planning your childs party. There are some fabulous companies who will take all the stress from your shoulders and plan all the party entertainment for you!

Popular parties include pamper parties for girls, including face painting and dressing up, or pirate parties for boys where teams rival each other to find the hidden treasure!