4th Birthday Party - is it worth paying for an entertainer?

[snss75]

My son is turning 4 in September and I've been thinking of hiring an entertainer for his birthday party (have never hired one before). We're not having a huge party but are going to have a little bbq at home with only about 10 kids around 3-5 years old. I've looked at some of the recommendations here but was wondering if it's worth having an entertainer for a small group of kids like this? I know his friends love face painting, balloon modelling etc. so no doubt they would like it. Any opinion and/or recommendations would be much appreciated!

[Fuschia]

I think for 10 children at home, you could entertain them yourselves with things like making hats, a treasure hunt, pass the parcel, apple bobbing...(or the dry equivalent, hang those circular iced biscuits with holes in the middle on a bit of string for them to try to bite with thir hands behind their backs..)

Maybe make a little mini icecream bar and let them make their own sundaes with fruit, sprinkles, sauce etc?

[Tanza]

I agree - I don't think it's worth it for that number of kids. If they like painting then why not make masks (or buy them ready made) and get them to paint them. Or start watching the Mister Maker programme on CBeebies and copy one of his craft ideas. Or have a look on www.kidzcraft.co.uk for inspiration.

Followed by all the usual party games. Love the idea of the mini icecream bar Fuschia has suggested.

[Fuschia]

http://www.bakerross.co.uk/src/ADWORDS/product-Bug-Foam-Mask-Craft-Kits-EC119.htm - masks

http://www.bakerross.co.uk/src/ADWORDS/product-Design-a-Foam-Crown-EK104.htm

Lots of good stuff on this site.

http://www.bakerross.co.uk/find.asp?src=ADWORDS&name=tattoos - tattoos

[snss75]

Thanks for the ideas everyone! Temporary tattoos would probably go down well and will definitely consider the ice cream bar!

[dannynutt]

Hi, just been reading yours posts.. If you change your mind, and want a totally stress-free party, check out Nutty's Children's Parties. Run my myself and based in West Dulwich. See details in my signature.

Thanks,

D.

[dannynutt]

Woops! Here's my signature this time...