Want to make sure you plan the perfect party for your child? Then check out our step-by-step planning guide and 10 great tips for a successful party!
Try to start planning 6 weeks before. It will enable you to pull the party together at a relaxed pace. Plus, it means you can purchase party supplies as part of your regular shopping trips, instead of running all over town at the last minute!
Choose a theme
A good party theme provides a framework for your plans and decisions about what kind of invitations, activities, decorations, and food become easier.
When?
One of the biggest factors in selecting a party date and time is determining when your child’s good friends can attend. It is difficult to have weekday parties during the school year due to busy schedules. Opt for a Friday or Saturday party - Friday gives you Saturday to relax and recover. While Saturday gives you all day Friday to prepare. Check the proposed date and time with key friends beforehand. It is better to select another date than to have your child be disappointed because his best friend can’t attend.
Where to have it?
Some advantages to having a party at home include having plenty of time to set-up, having all your supplies close at hand, and having the party in an environment where your child is comfortable, which is especially important for younger children. Of course, the disadvantages are the cleaning, possible damage, space limitations and lack of built-in entertainment.
How long?
Some people prefer the idea of one to two-hour parties to make things easier for the parents and reduce the likelihood that the children will get bored or misbehave.
Who and how many?
Start with the “must invites”, your child’s best friends. If you want to invite additional children add the friends your child sometimes plays with. It is generally a good idea to invite a few more children than you would ideally like to attend, just in case a couple children have conflicts or are sick the day of the party.
Helpful tips
Involve your child - this is a fun project for you and your child to do together. Plus, involving your child in the party planning will ensure that the party reflects their interests.
Prioritise
There are so many fun things you can do, buy, and make that the party can suddenly become bigger and more elaborate than it really needs to be. This means extra work, extra cost, and probably less fun for all those involved. Focus on key things to party fun and when in doubt, put your efforts into games and activities, instead of food and decorations.
Budget
Do not spend more than you want or need to - the key pieces of a party; games, activities and fun food can be relatively inexpensive.
Plan
Develop your plan and timeline for the party and have back-up ideas in case of a sand storm or a no-show entertainer.
Prepare
Do as much as possible ahead of time. Then you will not be in a panic if you get a cold the week before the party or have a huge work project suddenly dropped in your lap.
Be realistic
Don’t think everything has to be perfect, because it probably won’t be. While it is great to check out party planning books or web sites for ideas and inspiration, just remember that your party is real-life and not a photo shoot. There will always be something you would do differently if you had it to do over again but don’t dwell on it.
Also help your child be realistic. The build-up of anticipation in the days before can lead to disappointment. Remind your child that he will still have a great time, even if he doesn’t win every game and doesn’t receive every present he wanted.
Take short cuts
Your “I’ll do it myself” list should focus on the things you have to do, either because they are not available or are too expensive, and the things you really want to do because it will be more fun. Find other things you can purchase ready-made or pay someone else to do.
Get help
Give everyone in the family, including the party child, a job. Be it picking up the balloons, making sandwiches or setting up games - everyone can get involved. Ask a friend because you can always return the favour when it is their turn.
Be flexible
Even with a great plan, things may not go as you thought. Don’t freak out; just be ready to shift gears and go to Plan B. Such as, crafts in the garage if the weather turns or a video if the entertainer doesn’t show.
Have fun!
It won’t be that long until your child thinks he is too old for parties or just wants to be dropped off at the movies with friends - so enjoy the party hats, silly games and cupcakes while you can! And remember don’t be too competitive with other parties. It is all about your child and all about having fun!
From venues, entertainment, decorations and foodie fun there are loads on offer in Dubai. Here are some of Connector’s favourites:
Animal Care Centre
Animal Care Centre’s Petting Zoo teaches children how to care and gain a lifelong love and respect for exotic animals. They provide pets to birthday parties, schools and corporate functions. A free photo disk is also available of the children holding and feeding the animas during the party. Have a fun birthday with their exotic pets! For further information, call 050-6467792 or visit www.animalcarecentre.ae.
Azur Spa On Wheels
Girls love to be pampered and feel beautiful and these Spa Parties were designed to do just that. From massage, facials, manis and pedis, make-up and hair styling, this is the perfect opportunity for petite princesses to sit back and chill. Visit www.azurspa.com.
Bubble Soccer
Bubble Soccer is suitable for kids aged eight years and older. Party packages include a variety of games and activities. This twist on the traditional game of soccer is where the kids can bounce and roll around in an inflatable bubble. Located at Al Quoz and Sports City. Visit www.bubblesoccer.ae.
Caboodle Pamper & Play
At Caboodle Pamper & Play, a dedicated creative expert will arrange everything, from the theme, décor, invitations, catering, activities and goodie bags. Fun play areas for the kids, a health conscious café and salon/spa facilities are available for events. Located at Dubai Mall and The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Visit www.caboodle.ae.
Café Ceramique
Paint your own party at Café Ceramique where the kids will love creating their own party bag memento from a choice of ceramics to decorate. There are party packages for every budget. Located at Jumeirah Town Centre and Festival City. Visit www.cafeceramique.ae.
Cheeky Little Parties
Cheeky Little Parties offer a wide range of party themes, entertainers and activities for babies through to teenagers. All parties have games that are age appropriate and have been tried and tested on the best… the little people. Visit www.cheekylittleevents.com.
Children’s City
This educational city devoted to children between two and 15 years is where they can investigate, explore, play, discover and learn about the world in which we live. Enjoy exhibits and programmes on applied sciences, nature, space exploration, and many others. For details on party packages. Visit www.childrencity.dm.gov.ae.
Craft Studio
Craft Studio has a wide variety of birthday party themes suitable for all ages for boys and girls. Themes include Monster Party Sailboat, Art Attack, Farm, Jungle, Under The Sea, Top Circus, Simple & Sweet Beach Party, Art Party, High School Musical and lots more. Visit www.craftstudio.ae.
Desert Chill
What better way to celebrate than with a visit from the desert ice cream man? The kids get to rush out and meet the van as it drives up to your venue or home, and of course, the chimes play ‘happy birthday!’ to add that special touch. Visit www.desertchill.ae.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Head for Dubai Mall where the Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has a host of party packages to choose from. Visit www.thedubaiaquarium.com.
Dubai Bowling Centre
Bowling parties are a fun and inexpensive way to celebrate your special occasion. No matter what the weather may be outside, the kids can enjoy a package that includes disco lights and music, fog machine and back lighting. Located in Al Quoz. Visit www.bowlingdubai.com.
Dubai Drums
Let Dubai Drums turn your child’s party into an afternoon of rhythm, fun, music and laughter. Enjoy Djembe group drumming, rhythmical party games and African dancing and singing and watch the tots turn into a tribe. Visit www.dubaidrums.com.
FDK Fashion Designer Kidz
Is your little fashionista a Project Runway fan, keen to learn how to become a famous fashion designer? Founded by a qualified and experienced British designer and teacher, Fashion Designer Kidz offers the perfect party with a cache of fabulous fun for children from seven and 16 years old. Visit www.fashiondesignerkidz.com.
Fun Corner
Fun Corner provides complete party planning services that cater to children’s birthday parties and events. They can provide bouncy castles, magicians, games and clowns. Located at Spinneys Centre, Umm Suqeim and Safe Play at Jumeira Plaza, Beach Road. Visit www.funcorner.me.
Funky Monkeys
Funky Monkeys Playland, the popular edutainment centre located on Sheikh Zayed Road, offer various services catering to kids’ edutainment such as soft play, kids’ cafe, workshops, arts and crafts and baking. Visit www.funkymonkeysuae.com.
iFLY Dubai
Take to the sky at a birthday party with a difference. The First Time Flyer Standard package (two minutes) includes a goody bag with a photo, wristband, certificate and iFly Voucher and is priced at Dhs 135 (weekdays) and Dhs 150 (weekends). The other package offers room hire for two hours (Dhs 250), for the briefing, flying time and to have food. Children must be three years and above to fly. Located at City Centre Mirdif. Visit www.theplaymania.com.
Kiducation
Kiducation parties provide the best in entertainment for children’s birthdays as well as unique fun filled party packages, with numerous themed options for boys and girls. visit www.kiducationparties.com.
Kidville
From planning to execution, let JBR’s Kidville party team bring your child’s dream party to reality. Choose from two all-inclusive party packages or have the party planning experts create a custom package for you. Visit www.kidville.com.
KidZania
KidZania, Dubai Mall, provides an innovative platform for children, as they enact over 80 role-playing professions including that of pilots, doctors, healthcare professionals, civil defence personnel, police officers, reporters, photographers, engineers, fashion designers, and artists, among others. KidZania provides a safe, unique and very realistic educational environment that allows kidZ to do what comes naturally to them: role-playing by emulating professional activities undertaken by adults in real life. For more information visit www.kidzania.ae. To enquire about the different party packages available call 04-4485222.
Little Sparkles Parties
Toddler or teen, Little Sparkles Parties specialise in personalised party planning, stunning settings, fun entertainment and imaginative activities. They offer real-life princesses and superheroes, bubbly characters, spa lounge, glamour makeovers, football and dance parties, favours, The Dazzling Dress Up Shop, The Munchies station, and The Sweetalicious Candy Buffet. Visit www.littlesparklesparties.com.
Mad Science
Mad Science birthday parties entertain children of all ages with exciting, high-energy, interactive shows that come to you. The kids can discover objects that float through columns of air, relish the mystery of fireworks, watch in amazement as energy lights up a ball of plasma and see in wonder as water takes on an eerie green glow. Located in Karama. Visit www.uae.madscience.org.
Magic Planet
Magic Planet at Mall of Emirates has a host of party options with packages that include bowling, rides and the soft play area. All packages include a choice of Happy Meal with drink, games, music, decorations, invitations, a toy for each child and a Magic Planet card and party host. Visit www.theplaymania.com.
My Gym UAE
At My Gym every birthday party is a perfectly planned celebration created especially for your child, with special song and game requests made prior to the birthday party. Their party specialists will ensure that the party features nonstop action-packed activities, games, puppets, songs and more. Located in Al Barsha and Jumeirah 1. Visit www.mygym.com.
Njoi
Njoi, Dubai Marina Mall, is celebrating its first birthday and is introducing an enhanced choice of birthday party offerings, available throughout the year. Package 1 offers 30 minutes of soft play, a trampoline session, three video games and three kiddy rides for Dhs 99 per child (weekday) and Dhs 119 (weekend), and Package 2 includes any two activities of your choice from the soft play and trampoline areas for Dhs 70 (weekdays) and Dhs 90 (weekends). Both packages include two-hour hire of the party hall. Visit www.njoi.ae.
Paper Lane
Get creative with Paper Lane’s fabulous choice of craft-based activities from scrapbooking, card making, mini album to craft painting on different surfaces. Packages include all crafting supplies, use of the party room, set up and clean up, instructor for all activities, a two-hour programme, cupcakes from Sweet Lane and yummy snacks. Visit www.mypaperlane.com.
Party Centre
Party Centre is the largest party superstore in the Middle East with the widest selection of officially licensed party supplies, tableware, decorations and accessories and costumes for children and adults including Disney, Marvel, Nickelodeon, Warner Brothers, and so much more! It also carries the most extensive collection of top licensed and generic foil and latex balloon in the UAE. There is no doubt Party Centre is the biggest party superstore in the Middle East, a must see for all your party needs! Call the Al Garhoud branch on 04-2831353, Media City on 04-4533373, Al Raha Mall Abu Dhabi on 02-5565563, Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi on 02-4459595 or visit www.mypartycentre.com.
Party Zone
Party Zone is a complete solution provider for all your party needs. You can get everything you need for a party at home including a wide range of balloons, decorations, party essentials, piñatas, costumes, wigs, make-up kits and accessories for both children and adults. They carry licensed costumes of all your favourite characters like Ben 10, Dora, Barney and more. Brighten up your party with balloon decorations and customised balloon bouquets and entertain the kids with their face painters, clowns, balloon benders, character performances and bouncy castles for hours of unlimited fun. Located at Dubai Mall, Town Centre and The Palm. Visit www.partyzonellc.com.
Posh Paws Petting Farm
Party at Posh Paws Petting Farm and get up close and personal with ponies, rabbits, ferrets, goats baboons and porcupines. The kids can feed and pet the animals while learning fun facts about each one. They can even bring the animals to your home. Visit www.poshpawsdubai.com.
Rainforest Café
Unleash your inner party animal with a party package that includes invitations, food and drinks, decorations, games and face painting. Located at Dubai Mall. Visit www.rainforestcafeuae.com.
Reel Cinemas
Surprise your guests with a private screening of your child’s favourite movie. For more information, visit www.reelcinemas.ae.
SEGA Republic
Dubai Mall’s SEGA Republic features 15 thrilling attractions and more than 170 games, from cutting-edge motion simulators and virtual experiences to one of the region’s largest assortment of skill and redemption games. They offer three great party packages for the ultimate birthday bash. Visit www.segarepublic.com.
Ski Dubai
Chill out at Ski Dubai where they have numerous party options to suit all ages. From whizzing around on the slopes to hanging out with penguins plus food from St. Moritz Café, they can take care of everything. Visit www.theplaymania.com.
Splash n Bounce
Splash n Bounce specialise in parties, events, soft play and party supplies. They can organise a pool or garden party and also have a party store that stocks a huge range of party supplies. The soft play area, Party n Play Land at Bay Avenue, is the perfect place for your kids to party. Splash n Bounce offers a wide range of inflatables and entertainment suitable from toddlers to teens. Located at the Green Community. Visit www.splashnbounce.com.
Splash ‘n’ Party
Splash ‘n’ Party features a sizeable vibrant outdoor splash pad area along with water slides and water guns, all designed to engage the young and the young-at-heart in enjoyable wet and wild, fun
and games. So why not hire out the entire Jumeirah villa and garden complex or let them bring the action directly to your door? From bouncy castle hire with customisable themed canopy to inflatable water slides, climbing walls and much more, the team will deliver and install the equipment in your outdoor space, before dismantling and removing everything once the excitement is over. Visit www.spashnparty.ae.
Tee and Putt Mini Golf
This 18-hole mini golf comes with a fun twist, a world full of fun and imagination, with neon colours and an out-of-this-world theme. There are numerous party packages on offer that include invitations, themes, 18-hole mini golf game, personalised banner for projector, meals, games, prizes, host, photo, music, decorations and voucher. Located at Wafi Mall, Arabian Center and Abu Dhabi’s Dalma Mall. Visit www.teeandputt.com.
The Jam Jar
You’re guaranteed a colourful experience with these painting packages complete with canvas, apron, brushes and unlimited paint. And each person gets to take their masterpiece home. Visit www.thejamjardubai.com.
Tickles and Giggles
T&G is an exclusive recreation space that offers a fun and safe space where your little one can learn, explore and use his imagination. The children’s boutique is a great place with kids’ spa, salon and soft play area. It is also a wonderful space for creative and memorable birthday parties. Located in Dubai Marina. Visit www.ticklesandgiggles.com.
Wild Wadi
Wild Wadi offers tons of fun, unlimited rides and some extra surprises for children aged between three and 12 years. Birthday packages come in two different rates with unique varieties of fun ranging from Dhs 215 to Dhs 225. Visit www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/wild-wadi/.