6 weeks before
Select date and time of party
Check calendar - avoid school holidays and bank holidays unless you want a particularly small party.
Don't overdo length of party 2 hours is great for most age groups ½ for 2 and 3 year olds is fine
Create Guest-list
You might have to invite all of the class in which case this will affect the location
Don't send invites to school unless the whole class is coming
Any preschoolers will have an adult present with them
Guest list should have 3 columns - RSVPs, Gifts and Phone Numbers
Select location - keep it to familiar location for a preschooler
If party is held at home - clear out room of any toys
If outdoor party have a wet-weather plan
Select Theme and choose party plan and box - think of one that will include boys and girls if you are inviting a mixed crowd.
Always ask the birthday child - they can sometimes surprise you with their birthday dream

4 weeks before
Write Guest list
Print Out and send Invites - check with Mums whether any allergies
Keep track of RSVP using Guest List
Choose cake - avoid nuts - some children have allergies
Round up willing helpers for the day - jobs needed - coatcollecting, help take out food, toilet runs etc
Order any kids tables and chairs from local party shop or softplay equipment if required

2 weeks before
Plan party refreshments - children's favourites: shaped pizzas, sandwiches, chicken nuggets, pinwheel sandwiches, fruit dipped in chocolate, gingerbread teddies, juice cartons, fruit kebabs as well as chocolate
If scheduling food delivery do it for day before party
Check camera batteries, memory card and film - have disposable camera ready just in case
Select Party Music - mixture of Disney magical/slow music and boppy jumping around music - see chosen party plan.
Bag up separate party props
Select and Buy Party Box with themed tableware, helium etc
Amass items needed for Party Games - see chosen party plan

1 Week before
Double-check first aid
Call anyone not yet RSVPd and amend letter if need be

Day before Party
Prepare any food possible
Make sure you have guestlist to hand with contact numbers if need be
Lay out party clothes

Day of Party
Make or pick-up cake
Prepare food
Know where the camera and matches are for the cake always
Keep sellotape on hand to stick any cards onto the presents
Have a special place for the Present Table
Keep an index card with rough idea of party to hand