enough to steal a sweet! Then you can play round two on hands and knees for a bit of a challenge.Nose Slalom What’s the game? An eating race without using your hands. And no forks and knives either!What do we need? Party ring biscuits or After Eights

. Party nibbles for all Before you go overboard working out what to cook for the grown-ups at the party, remember that most adults are secretly fond of retro party food, crisps and child-sized sandwiches and other popular nibbles. You could save yourself a

and they must get across without falling in – the winner is the one who makes it across first.15. Get physical For an outdoor party, a ball is all you need. Provide an adult- and child-friendly picnic and everyone will have a good time. If you live near a park

local party shop should be able to provide plenty of pirate flags and black balloons.  Pirate costumes are really easy to concoct, and even the most self-conscious child can usually be persuaded to don a pair of cut-off jeans and a stripy T-shirt. 10

This morning Caramel Baby and Child's shop in Nottinghill looked so inviting, a treasure trove of beautiful clothes.Caramel Baby & Child, 77 Ledbury Road, W11, 020 8960 1125

in their child’s room. Toddlers also love blown-up rubber or helium balloons, which provide hours of entertainment.2. Add a little home-made touch  Provide a fun going-home present by making home-made play dough. You can put it in little baby-food jars and add a

action.Best for: Ages 4+ Cost: From £500Contact: Visit www.allstarlanes.co.ukBATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN'S ZOOFor a hands-on animal experience why not host your child’s party at this friendly children’s zoo? Embark on a fact-filled tour, visiting everyone

THEY ARE ONE of Britain’s great summer traditions. The Queen herself leads the way with her royal garden parties replete with cucumber sandwiches (sans crusts, of course) and military brass band.    For your own child-friendly al fresco affair, you

blighter in the bathroom for the duration of the party, so you’ll have to deal with the situation. The lure of prizes may stop the child (brat) from rampaging. Make it clear that only well-behaved children will receive them, though. Involve her in running

packaging and cost that comes with shop-bought food.Ditch the goodie bags Does any child really need another paper hat or tub of bubbles? Experience based parties such as a trip to the zoo or pottery making leave a lasting memory, which doesn’t get lost