Jumping castles, magicians, clowns, fairies, princesses, ponies, superheroes … the list of expensive elements you can invite to your next children's party is as long as most letters to Santa. The days when a bit of fairy bread and a pass the parcel seem long gone, and, unfortunately, so too seem the days of a budget birthday party.

Not so, says Sara Verge, editor of Wondertime magazine, who reckons the key to keeping an eye on your birthday budget is remembering to see the big day from your child's perspective.

"Kids' parties have become so competitive," Verge says. "My first tip to parents would be to try very hard not to get sucked into it. Kids are not necessarily impressed by bigger, better and more — particularly little kids who can be overwhelmed by big parties."

The key is to remember that young kids have no idea of the value of money. "So much of what goes on is for the parents," Verge says. "Children aren't going to be impressed by designer cupcakes — they just want to have a party and play with their friends. Keep it simple."

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