When planning a party for children of a certain age, it begins to get a little bit hard.
A hint that is almost one hundred percent fail-protected, is having a theme for the party.
Kids LOVE to have themes and above all, it makes it easy for you to decide what decorations you want.
Characters are the most common but other themes such as a jungle theme, lady bug theme etc.
are also very popular as well.
In most stores, you can find all different kinds of characters that will go with boys and girls.
Below are some tips and advice to make your party the best themed event ever.

• Invitations: At every party store, they will include invitations.
  Most particular the invitations that would correspond to the theme you have decided upon.
  The reason for this, is to show the kids before hand that it is a "character" party and also the bright and many colors indicate "party" and most importantly "fun".
  Kids are naturally drawn to colorful things and especially if they are indications of an event.
  It's proven that kids in school LIKE school better and feel cheery and bright when colorful things are around the room.
  This is the same concept, except it is in anticipation.
  
• Tableware: Also at every party store, there is the tableware that ALSO coordinates too.
  You can either get the characters for your theme that are imprinted on the plates, cups and napkins, or you can get a solid color that would add to the decorations already in the room.
  This also makes it fun.
  Have a tablecloth as well as the plates, cups and napkins.
  
• Balloons: Balloons in general make kids happy and excited.
  Partly because they love balloons and are hoping they get one.
  So, if you decide to have the balloons, give them away at the end of the party and you will for sure make a smile appear on their faces.
  
• Streamers: Streamers are some of the coolest things.
  They change a room around from normal to "party-ish" in a few moments.
  Whether it really be a kids party, a holiday party, a bridal or baby shower etc.
  They also help bring in the colors that go with the theme you have decided upon.
  Like for instance if it were a Dora Explorer party, you would probably want to have purple and blue streamers, maybe a little bit of yellow and brown etc.
  
• Cake: Every party has to have cake.
  Although you cannot find it at a party store, they are found in every grocery store across the country.
  Unless you want to be creative and make one yourself.
  Cupcakes are also a good idea.
  Dish them up on the tableware and serve away!:)
• Party Favors: Sending kids home with gifts is probably the most exciting part of the party for the kids.
  Because they have been exhausted from the activities, adding one final gift for fun at home would get a smile from them.
  Balloons are common, fake tattoos, bags of candy, noise makers, bracelets, water guns etc.
  They'll love most anything you sent home with them.
  

So, the list of course can go on and on.
But, that is left up to you for what direction you want to go.
These are the basics and even if you just have these basic birthday supplies, you'll be sure to have a blast.
Don't forget to plan games and other activities as well.
Kids love games and movies and other treats as well.