http://www.barclays.co.ukKeeping up to date with the latest trends can be a year-round concern as every child has at least one birthday. So if you are choosing that special gift for their big day, what do you need to know?Pre-schoolIf you are buying

 while the doctor does the deed. There's a party at Big School so the new children can get to know the older ones. News of Sam's school refusnik status has leaked, and one by one, the teachers approach him for an enthusiastic chat. His body language during

of Dame Slap) or sometimes fantastically enjoyable (the Land of Birthdays, the Land of Take-What-You-Want). The children are free to come and go, but they have to leave before the land "moves on" or they will be stuck there until the magic hole returns

Little Fashion Gallery the luxury e-tailer have launched a noval birthday kit in colloboration with My Little Day. Once one has wrapped the beautiful monogrammed LFG box little fingers can decorate their birthday party with 8 golden plates/ 8

With six slip-in pockets for your child’s doodles and special photographs, these fun Clippykit Table Mates mats will personalise every place at the family dinner table. They are also perfect for special occasions, especially birthdays, as they can

Mother of two boys, Sonny and Kit, songstress Sophie Ellis Bextor was DJ for the nightWe were caught up in a whirlwind of celebrity guests, champagne and delicious cupcakes last night to celebrate the 30th birthday of gorgeous baby product label

Perfectly capturing childhood innocence, charming  illustrations of Belle and her rabbit Boo can be found clambering all over this subtly nostalgic collection.The Birthday Surprise, £11The delightfully illustrated picture book debut of Belle & Boo

to avoid it. Most parents loathe bubble mixture, as small children more often than not end up tipping the liquid all over the car on their way home.4. Pressie time  Get into the habit of looking out for party bag items throughout the year and buy them when

and sprinkles.Taken from Birthday Cakes For Kids by Annie Rigg (Ryland Peters & Small, £14.99).

sandpit to play in. Although the under-twos are too young for traditional party games, you could hide a few small toys in the sandpit and help them dig for buried treasure. 5. Keep spare props on handSome children may forget to bring along their own teddy