10 Things Every Mom Needs to Know When Throwing a Birthday Party for Kids

The secret to pulling off a great birthday party for kids without even breaking a sweat is a combination of enthusiasm, thoughtful planning and the ability to maintain control over a bunch of rowdy kids.

Here are 10 things EVERY Mom should know:

1. Put it on paper; the first and most essential step when planning a is as simple as making a list! Consider your budget, possible theme party idea's, possible dates, at home, the park or a party venue, what you would like to offer for refreshments etc.

2. Once you have worked out your overall plan for the party it's time to think entertainment, if you are hiring a professional you will need to book at least 4-6 weeks in advance.

3. Get your party child involved, it helps to build the excitement and anticipation and of course makes them feel oh so special. But, never make the mistake of saying it's your birthday darling, you can have any kind of party you like, or you could end up with pony rides in your fourth floor apartment.

4. Check your child's best friend can attend on the day you are planning your party. Be flexible if you can by trying to celebrate on a day your child's BFF can attend.

5. Now for the rest of the guest list; decide on the numbers first, then ask you child who they would like to invite.

6. Go out and buy a large plastic tub, your ‘Party Tub' will be a great place to add your party supplies as you buy them and then store the left over's for the next party.

7. Now you're ready to really get the ball rolling with some great original handmade invitations. Hand made or printed pad, it doesn't matter as long as you get them out at least 2 weeks before the day. Please remember to include an RSVP with the reply date, phone number and name of the person to speak to.

8. The power of delegation is a very useful skill if you want to throw a successful birthday party for kids, so exercise it by asking a parent or two to stay at the party to help, designate tasks, such as serving food, or managing the games so that you can focus on everything running smoothly.

9. Thinking before baking saves time and trouble so once again, make a list, don't overdo it and try to have things you can prepare the day before.

10. Last but not least stay calm. Have a planned schedule of events before the guests arrive, but don't worry if it all goes hay wire, birthday parties are meant to have at least a degree of chaos, so go with it, have fun and just enjoy them while they're young.