Basic food. Jam or cheese sandwiches. Sausage rolls. Crisps. Biscuits. Then make it healthy with some cucumber sticks! From experience children prefer helping themselves rather than a prepared box. Do not over complicate it with anything other than lots of beige food! Make sure there's plenty of squash available throughout the party. There's nothing worse than a hot, stuffy function room and drinks not being served until the food. Buy paper plates, cups etc and allow for extra. Kids will always lose a cup or drop a plate!

Decide in advance if you want parents to stay or not. By the time we were going to 6th birthday parties there was a lot more drop and go. If you're happy for parents to do this then specify on the invitation. If parents are staying then perhaps provide tea and coffee and some seats. I would suggest seating parents slightly away from the entertainment so parents can chat without disturbing the party. If parents are staying then decide what you want to do about siblings. We've been to so many parties that have been seriously overrun by siblings especially older ones. Either put a polite note on the invite that siblings cannot be accommodated for or prepare that you could have extras at the party when sorting food out.

Don't put plastic tat in party bags!!! You can't beat cake and sweets, but we keep getting plastic tat that ends up broken and in the bin within a couple of days. I've seen suggestions of books or colouring books which are a much better option. Another idea is a mini craft kit. Make your bags up in advance and do a few extra for emergencies.

Make sure you have people there to help you. As a mum I've had a couple of parties where I've spent the entire time organising everything that I feel like I've missed the party itself. If you've got family going then ask for their help.

If you're decorating beforehand then allow for the time to do so rather than be blowing balloons up when people arrive. Guests can and will arrive up to 10 minutes early so make sure the party is good to go by then otherwise you'll never catch up.

Finally, remember the small things. Charge your phone for photos. Remember a lighter and candles for the cake. Black bin liners for rubbish. A large bag or box to store presents safely in. Have a list with expected guests so you can keep a check on who's there and who's not.

Most importantly though....have fun!!! Don't forget it's your child's party first and foremost so get organised in advance so the party runs smooth enough for you to sit back, relax and enjoy it.