We all remember parties from our childhood – loads of sugar, additives and spoilt birthday boys and girls. These days, parents are looking for a day that entertains all the children equally and doesn’t compromise on their children’s health. We all dread our kids coming home from someone else’s party having consumed too much junk food, after which they are difficult at bedtime. Wouldn’t it be nice to send other people’s children home filled with healthy and nutritious food and having enjoyed an educative and fun filled day of sharing and understanding? Sounds impossible? With a bit of forethought and careful planning, a kids party can easily be a great day enjoyed by all equally and full of kind, sharing thoughts.

There are tonnes of games out there known as ‘co-operative’ games where everyone is a winner, or team games where kids are encouraged to work together. Instead of a clown, hire a children’s outdoor educator to come and do a talk on growing your own plants and give kids a chance to sew some seeds. Alternatively, kids can be taken on a trip to a local organic farm that facilitates children’s education. Parties where children learn knitting or sewing are also a great chance to teach them about sustainable living whilst providing a lot of fun.

It is also possible to treat children to great party food without stuffing them full of sugar and flavourings. Treats can include healthy and ethical snacks such as organic crisps, fairtrade raisins and fairtrade chocolates. Paper plates and plastic cutlery are notoriously bad for the environment but there are now lots of biodegradable options out there.

A kids’ birthday party should be enjoyed by all attendees and should not compromise your green and ethical principles. From fairtrade gifts to ‘fair’ games and thoughtful activities, there are lots of options worth considering to help you throw an ethical kids’ party.