It's not easy keeping a large group of kids entertained for lengthy periods of time. This often creates anxiety for parents in the lead up to their child's special day. When it’s all seen as too hard, it can often result in a very expensive, impersonal party with paid entertainment or activities.

However, there is a really simple solution. Kids love to get stuck in to being creative, so simply put a selection of materials on the table and let their imaginations run wild. Invest in some value packs of coloured paper and card, provide some sequins, glitter, felt, googly eyes, plus glue sticks and safety scissors, then watch them go. Why not get them all making party hats or hand puppets? Wooden spoon monsters are also great fun, just paint them in different colours and use scraps of yarn for the hair.

Think outside the square - adults also love crafty parties! They can be very enriching fun! Invite the girls round for a glass of wine (or several) and create some stunning jewellery. It doesn't have to be anything complicated, simple earrings or bracelets are ideal for a large number of people to work on at once. If beading is not your forte, then how about using your digital camera to make sure those memories last forever. Snaps can be uploaded and printed out in an instant, so why not make a scrapbook of the party as it takes place. Give each of your guests a page to work on, then by the end of the evening you will have put together a fabulous album to commemorate the event – now that's teamwork!