1. Schedule your child's party six weeks in advance. This way you'll be able to enjoy the planning and give your child the best party possible.

2. Select a date on or as close to your child's birthday as possible. The memories they attach to “their” day will be memories that last forever.

3. Make sure your child's birthday is the main event of the day. Consider holidays, other children's parties and school events and vacations when selecting the party date. Work around them the best you can.

4. Choosing the time of day to hold your child's party can be tricky if you don't wish to serve a meal (not including cake and ice cream). We suggest morning parties to end by 11:30 a.m., afternoon parties to begin around 1:00 p.m., and evening parties to end by 5:30 p.m. There's nothing worse than grumbling tummies to ruin the fun.

5. Don't let a little rain spoil your day. Be prepared to bring your outside party in if the need arises. It is easier to move decorations than reschedule party dates.

6. Give priority to your child's best friend and sibling(s). The day won't be the same if the partygoers aren't familiar faces. Choose a day where close friends and family will be able to join in on the celebration.

7. In order to avoid “party-poopers” consider the age of the children when deciding the length of your gathering. Toddlers will enjoy your party more if you avoid nap time and catch them at their peak energy levels. Ninety minutes is plenty for the young ones while older children will remain entertained for up to two hours.

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