What under-5s really want at their birthday party

It won’t go down well with the Competitive Parent Brigade, but according to children’s communication charity I CAN, under-5s are much happier with simple birthday parties.

According to survey results of 1500 UK parents with children under five, the most popular features of a party include musical chairs, pass the parcel and the Hokey Cokey.

I CAN Communication Advisor, Kate Freeman said “Children’s parties have become more sophisticated in recent years, with many parents spending lots of money on entertainment for children. Yet today’s research shows that, when it comes down to it, children still prefer the traditional games and party fun. The top five activities all involve communicating and socialising with their friends – from pass the parcel, which boosts turn-taking and listening skills to singing and rhyming games like the Hokey Cokey. This type of activity enhances children’s understanding of the structure and meaning of language – and there is no better environment for a child to develop their confidence than with a group of friends and adults in a relaxed and fun setting like a party”.