Party planning is important to ensure success. This page contains a few useful hints and tips Billy Wiz has learnt while performing and organising children's parties. 

The food

Who’s who?

How long should the party be?

Assistance

Sweets & drinks

Where’s the party

Balloons & Squeakers

Age ranges

How many kids should you invite?

The entertainment

Insurance

Other parents at the party (Very important)

THE FOOD

Keep your food simple. Children aren't fussy, they just want something quick and simple so they can get back to enjoying the party games. Back to top.

WHO'S WHO?
It’s a good idea if possible to supply name badges/stickers for the children as they arrive. It helps you and the entertainer if you can call them by their first name. Back to top.
 
HOW LONG
Far too many parties are spoilt by going on for too long. Two hours is ideal for a really successful party. Back to top.
 
ASSISTANCE
There must be two adults in the room at all times to assist any child who may need the bathroom etc. Back to top.

SWEETS & DRINKS
Avoid serving sweets or drink during the magic show. Children can’t shout the magic word with a mouth full of sweets, and this is when drinks will be spilt. Back to top.

WHERE'S THE PARTY
Tie a bunch of balloons to the front door; it guides guests to the party and sets the mood. Back to top.
 
BALLOONS & SQUEAKERS
Save squeakers, blowers and balloons till the end - or they could ruin the party! Hang the balloons up, out of reach, and give one to each child as a going home present. Back to top.
 
AGE RANGES

Try if possible to restrict the party to those children who are within a year or two of the birthday child's age. Seven year old Jimmy may play with his three year old sister at home, but neither he or his friends will play with younger children at a party. Back to top.

HOW MANY

Do not invite more children to your party than your house can cope with. 15 to 20 is a good number for a house party, and 20 to 30 is a good number for a hall. Back to top.

THE ENTERTAINMENT
If you are going to hire a children's entertainer, check that they are a member of a recognised society, such as the Magic Circle or the International Brotherhood of Magicians. These societies have a strict entrance examination which should ensure you will be getting a competent performer. Back to top.

INSURANCE
Check that the entertainer is covered by public liability insurance. This is very important!! Back to top.

 
 PARENTS

From experience, I've found that shows can often be spoilt by parents. Billy Wiz cannot compete with the noise of parents and friends talking in the background. The children struggle to hear me, and I can't hear the children. It's best to ask parents not to stay, or go to a different room if they wish to chat. Back to top.
 
Avoid disappointment book your entertainment early, especially Christmas Parties.

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