Kids’ party favours are small gifts given to guests as a thank-you for attending. They’re a staple at Australian celebrations, adding fun and a personal touch. Whether it’s bubbles for toddlers, puzzles for primary kids, or quirky stationery for tweens, the right favours can make any party more memorable.
Key Takeaways:
- Budget: Spend $3–$7 per child. For 12 kids, a $5 budget totals $60.
- Age-Appropriate Ideas: Chunky crayons for toddlers, slime kits for primary kids, or phone pop sockets for tweens.
- Where to Buy: Kmart, Big W, Target, Spotlight, and online stores offer affordable and themed options.
- Eco-Friendly Choices: Seed bombs, reusable water bottles, or fabric bags are thoughtful and sustainable.
- Personalisation: Custom labels, DIY crafts, or photo station takeaways add a special touch.
- Distribution: Hand out favours as guests leave or integrate them into party activities.
Plan ahead, match favours to your theme, and prioritise safety and fun for a stress-free experience.
Planning and Budgeting for Party Favours
How to Determine Quantities and Guest Needs
Start by creating a detailed guest list to figure out how many party favours you’ll need. The general rule is simple: one party favour per child on your list – this way, everyone gets something to take home.
The type of favours can also influence the quantity. For toddler parties (ages 1–3), it’s best to stick to one larger, age-appropriate item per child. This minimises safety concerns and keeps things simple.
If you’re putting together goodie bags, plan for two to three small items per bag. Popular choices include lollies, mini toys, stickers, crayons, or bubbles. So, for a party with 15 children, and three items in each bag, you’ll need 45 individual items, plus the bags themselves.
Buying in bulk not only ensures you have enough but also helps save money. It’s a good idea to grab a few extras as a backup, just in case.
Once you’ve sorted the quantities, the next step is setting a clear budget.
Setting a Budget in AUD
In Australia, aim to spend between $3 and $7 per child on party favours.
To figure out your total budget, simply multiply the per-child amount by the number of guests. For instance, if you’re planning for 12 children and set aside $5 per child, your total budget would come to $60.
Where to Source Party Favours in Australia
There are plenty of options in Australia for finding party favours that suit your budget and theme:
- Discount stores: Shops like Kmart, Big W, and Target are great for affordable, basic favours. Their party sections usually stock items like bubbles, crayons, stickers, and themed goodies, making them perfect for bulk buys.
- Specialty party stores: These shops offer more unique and themed items, ideal for milestone parties. While they might be pricier, the variety and quality can make them worth considering.
- Online retailers: Shopping online opens up access to bulk deals and unique items that you may not find in local stores.
- Warehouse stores: Places like Costco are excellent for larger gatherings, offering bulk packs at lower per-unit costs.
- Craft stores: Shops like Spotlight and Lincraft are perfect for DIY favour supplies, adding a personalised touch to your party.
With a little planning and the right sources, you can create memorable party favours without breaking the bank.
DIY | 3 Super Cute Party Favors (cheap &easy!!)
Fun and Trendy Party Favour Ideas
The right party favours can turn an ordinary gathering into something unforgettable. Whether it’s a kids’ birthday bash or a family celebration, these ideas are tailored for Australian parties, combining fun, practicality, and a touch of local charm.
Themed Favours for Popular Party Themes
Superhero parties are a hit with kids across Australia. Think mini personalised superhero masks, slap bracelets, or DIY cape-making kits with pre-cut fabric and iron-on letters – perfect for sparking creativity and excitement.
For princess and fairy-themed celebrations, plastic tiaras with colourful gems and fairy wands adorned with ribbons and bells are always a crowd-pleaser. For older children, mini nail polish sets in soft, princess-inspired colours are a charming option – just make sure they’re non-toxic and peelable.
Dinosaur parties remain a favourite among preschoolers. Dinosaur fossil excavation kits – small plaster blocks hiding tiny dinosaurs – are both entertaining and budget-friendly. Other great options include dinosaur figurines or temporary tattoos with prehistoric designs.
Space and astronaut themes inspire curiosity and wonder. Great favours include glow-in-the-dark star stickers, mini rocket ship toys, or astronaut helmet stickers. For something extra special, you could even hand out “space food” like freeze-dried ice cream.
If you’re looking for more sustainable options, there are plenty of eco-friendly ideas to consider.
Eco-Friendly and Reusable Options
With a growing focus on sustainability, eco-friendly party favours are gaining popularity. Seed bombs filled with native Australian wildflower seeds are not only fun but also encourage kids to learn about gardening while supporting local plant life. Reusable water bottles customised with themed stickers are both practical and perfect for Australia’s hot summers.
Mini succulents in terracotta pots are another thoughtful choice. Hardy plants like jade or echeveria thrive even with minimal care. For something different, bamboo toothbrushes with colourful bristles, paired with natural toothpaste, make for a quirky yet useful gift. To top it off, replace plastic party bags with fabric drawstring bags made from cotton or hemp – these double as reusable keepsakes.
Age-Specific Recommendations
For toddlers (1–3 years), keep it simple with chunky crayons, fabric books, or spill-proof bubble solutions. Musical shakers or maracas are also fantastic for sensory play.
Primary school kids (4–8 years) love interactive favours like mini puzzles, small LEGO sets, or friendship bracelet craft kits. Slime-making kits are another popular choice – just include clear instructions and a heads-up for parents about the potential mess!
Tweens (9–12 years) appreciate more mature options like phone pop sockets, mini journals with pens, or DIY lip balm kits. Fidget toys, such as stress balls, remain a favourite, while tech-savvy tweens might enjoy phone camera lens attachments for snapping cool photos.
For parties with mixed-age groups, go for universally appealing items like stickers, temporary tattoos, or small notebooks. Activity books with sections for different ages or versatile art supplies ensure everyone finds something they’ll enjoy.
The best party favours aren’t just about the items themselves – they’re about thoughtfulness and presentation. A beautifully wrapped gift can bring just as much joy as the favour inside, proving that it’s the little details that make all the difference.
Now that you’ve got a list of trendy ideas, let’s explore how to personalise these favours to make them even more special.
Customising and Personalising Party Favours
The difference between a party favour that’s simply nice and one that becomes a treasured keepsake often comes down to the little details. Adding personal touches can transform ordinary favours into something memorable, making them a delightful part of the celebration.
Adding Personal Touches
A simple way to elevate party favours is through custom labels and stickers. For instance, you can personalise water bottles, lunch boxes, or craft supplies with each child’s name using waterproof labels. If your party has a theme, consider incorporating custom designs like superhero emblems or princess crowns into name tags. These small details can make a big difference.
Even the packaging can add a touch of magic. Brown paper bags stamped with each child’s initials or clear cellophane bags tied with colourful ribbons and custom tags can make even the simplest items feel special. Match the packaging to your party’s theme – think purple and gold for a royal affair or bold primary colours for a superhero gathering – to tie everything together.
Adding photos is another way to make your favours stand out. A photo station at the party allows you to capture fun moments and print Polaroid-style pictures to include in each favour bag. Alternatively, you could set up a craft station where kids decorate cardboard photo frames, turning the activity itself into a personalised keepsake.
Even name tags can be made more memorable with small tweaks. Instead of just the child’s name, include a fun title like “Super Party Guest” or “Royal Attendee.” These minor adjustments make each child feel extra special and turn an ordinary item into a personal treasure.
Incorporating DIY Crafts
Craft activities that double as favours are a clever way to keep kids entertained while giving them something unique to take home. For example, you could set up a painted rock station with everything they need to create their own designs. Friendship bracelet stations, complete with embroidery floss and beads, are another fun option that works well for kids of all ages.
Decorating picture frames is another engaging activity. Provide wooden frames and a variety of embellishments, and let kids get creative. You can even add a group photo from the party afterward, making the frame a lasting reminder of the day.
For budding artists, mini canvas paintings can be a hit. Supply small 10cm x 10cm canvases, acrylic paints, and brushes, giving children the opportunity to create their own masterpieces. Setting up a drying station ensures their artwork is ready to take home.
Decorated cookies are another fun idea that combines creativity with a delicious treat. Provide plain sugar cookies along with decorating gels, sprinkles, and small sweets. Kids can enjoy the creative process, and whether they eat their creations or save them, it’s an activity they’ll love.
Australian Customisation Services
If you’re looking for a polished finish, professional customisation services can help. For example, One Click Events offers custom printing for stickers, labels, and other items tailored to your party’s theme. This ensures your favours not only look great but also fit seamlessly into your overall party vision.
Keep in mind that custom orders often require a few business days, so plan ahead. Double-check your guest list for accurate spelling to ensure every child’s personalised item is just right.
When considering your budget, remember that customisation costs can vary. Simple printed labels are usually affordable, while more elaborate options might be pricier. Striking a balance between your budget and your customisation ideas is key – sometimes the smallest, simplest touches leave the biggest impression.
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Practical Tips for Assembly and Distribution
Once you’ve nailed down your customised party favours, the next step is putting them together and distributing them in a way that keeps everything running smoothly. Here’s how to make the process efficient and stress-free.
Efficient Assembly Tips
Start by setting up a workspace that keeps everything organised. A large table works perfectly – lay out your favour bags or containers first, and then arrange all the items you’ll be adding into separate bowls or piles nearby.
As you assemble, follow a consistent sequence. For example, start with stickers, then add lollies, followed by toys. This method minimises the chance of forgetting an item or accidentally giving one child more than another.
To keep everything organised, label each bag with the child’s name using permanent markers or printed labels. Cross-check your guest list as you go to ensure no one gets missed.
If you’re short on time, enlist some help. Family members can pitch in, and kids often enjoy being part of the process. It can even become a fun pre-party activity! Just make sure to supervise younger helpers to maintain consistency – no one wants a bag with extra lollies while another has none.
Once everything is assembled, shift your attention to packaging to ensure everything is secure and safe.
Safe and Considerate Packaging
When packaging your favours, safety and eco-conscious choices are key. First, make sure all items are allergen-free, age-appropriate, and compliant with Australian safety standards. If you’re including food, check with parents ahead of time about any allergies. Common allergens like nuts, dairy, eggs, and gluten can be tricky, so when in doubt, go with certified allergen-free products or skip food altogether for children with severe allergies.
For packaging, try to choose biodegradable or compostable options. Paper bags are a great choice as they can be composted after use. If you prefer clear packaging to showcase the goodies, look for compostable cellophane made from plant-based materials instead of single-use plastics.
If your favours include items that could leak or crumble, like playdough or homemade biscuits, wrap them individually in small plastic bags or tissue paper. This keeps everything neat and avoids any messy surprises.
Finally, think about the journey home. Fragile items should be cushioned with tissue paper, and lids on containers should be double-checked to make sure they’re tightly sealed.
Timing and Distribution Strategies
When it comes to handing out the favours, timing is everything. Giving them out as kids leave the party works best – it doubles as a way to signal the end of the event while leaving the children with a happy memory. Plus, it avoids the chaos of kids misplacing their goodies during the party.
Keep the favour bags arranged near the exit in the order they’ll be handed out. This way, you can grab the right bag quickly without holding up the line. If the birthday child is old enough, let them help with distribution – it’s a sweet way for them to thank their guests personally.
If your favours are part of an activity, like decorated cookies or craft projects, set up a designated collection area where these items can dry or be safely stored until it’s time to go. Make sure the area is clearly labelled so kids know where to find their creations.
For larger gatherings, having an extra helper on hand to assist with distribution can prevent delays or confusion. It’s also a good idea to prepare a few extra generic favour bags in case of unexpected guests or if a bag gets damaged.
Avoid handing out the bags too early in the party, as kids might lose interest in other activities or misplace their favours. The only exception is when the favour itself is part of an activity, like decorating a photo frame they’ll use during the event.
Using Party Hire Services for Special Favours
When it comes to creating unique and memorable moments at events, party hire services can take things to the next level. They seamlessly combine entertainment with keepsakes, ensuring guests leave with more than just memories – they take home a piece of the celebration.
Interactive Experiences as Favours
Interactive experiences like photo booths are a hit, especially with children. These setups not only provide fun group activities but also offer tangible takeaways. For example, face painting and airbrush tattoos add an element of live entertainment while giving kids temporary, wearable artwork to enjoy. These activities keep the energy alive during the event and leave a lasting impression, tying in perfectly with the tailored services offered by One Click Events.
Services from One Click Events
One Click Events has mastered the art of blending fun with keepsakes. Their photo booth options cater to all kinds of events, featuring open-air setups, enclosed booths, and even GIF and boomerang formats. Kids can dive into a world of customised backdrops and props, leaving with instant prints that double as souvenirs.
"We offer several photo booth options, including open-air and enclosed booths, GIF and boomerang booths, and custom backdrops and props, to ensure your event is truly unforgettable", says One Click Events.
Beyond photo booths, One Click Events also provides airbrush tattoo and face painting services. These activities ensure every child walks away with a unique, temporary memento, making the experience even more special. This thoughtful mix of entertainment and personalised keepsakes is what sets their services apart.
Combining Entertainment with Keepsakes
The magic of interactive favours lies in their ability to merge fun with something tangible. Photo booths, for instance, keep kids entertained with quirky props and instant prints, while digital galleries allow guests to relive the moments later. Adding custom printing services to the mix – like personalised items created on-site – further enhances the experience, leaving guests with a heartfelt reminder of the celebration.
Conclusion and Final Tips
After diving into the planning, sourcing, and customisation advice earlier, let’s wrap up with some essential tips to create standout kids’ party favours.
Key Takeaways
Creating memorable party favours is all about careful planning and knowing your guests. Start by setting a realistic budget – $3–$7 per child is a good range to strike the right balance between quality and affordability. When in doubt, go for fewer, well-chosen items rather than an overload of less meaningful ones.
Choosing age-appropriate favours is key. Make sure your selections match the interests and developmental stage of your young guests. Safety is just as important – steer clear of small items for toddlers and always check for potential food allergies if you’re including edible treats.
Buying from local Australian suppliers not only ensures faster delivery and better quality control but also supports local businesses.
Another growing trend is the shift towards eco-friendly and reusable options. Items like reusable water bottles, fabric gift bags, or DIY craft kits are not only practical but also align with many Australian families’ focus on sustainability. These choices provide value long after the party ends and are often appreciated by parents.
Now, let’s take it a step further by adding personal touches and interactive elements to make your favours truly unforgettable.
Making Your Party Favours Special
Adding a personal touch can make all the difference. Custom labels, stickers, or handwritten thank-you notes not only enhance the look of the favours but also make each guest feel appreciated. Getting the birthday child involved in decorating or choosing items adds an extra layer of meaning to the process.
Think about combining fun with practicality. Activities during the party can double as take-home favours. For example, a craft station where kids make their own creations or a treasure hunt for themed goodies can make the distribution process just as exciting as the favours themselves.
Practical favours that offer ongoing enjoyment often leave the biggest impression. Ideas like DIY cookie mix jars, art kits, or finger puppets let the fun continue long after the party wraps up. These types of favours are not only entertaining but also provide lasting value.
For a more polished experience, consider hiring professional services. Companies like Melbourne’s One Click Events can add a unique touch with photo booths, face painting, or custom printing. These interactive elements create built-in keepsakes, reducing the need for traditional goody bags.
Finally, timing matters when it comes to handing out favours. Giving them out at the end of the party helps avoid distractions during activities, while integrating them into games or craft stations can enhance the overall party experience. Tailoring the distribution to fit your theme adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement.
FAQs
What are some fun and eco-friendly party favours for kids that also encourage learning?
Eco-friendly party favours can bring a touch of fun while teaching kids about caring for the planet. For instance, gifting seed packets or mini gardening kits can encourage kids to explore nature and develop an early appreciation for the environment. You could also opt for natural toys like wooden animals or non-toxic playdough – safe, sustainable, and perfect for little hands. Another idea is DIY craft kits made from environmentally friendly materials, which can ignite creativity while subtly introducing the concept of sustainability. These thoughtful gifts not only cut down on waste but also leave kids with memorable, hands-on experiences.
What are some creative ways to personalise kids’ party favours?
When putting together party favours for kids, adding personalised details can make them stand out. Try using custom labels or tags with the child’s name and the party date. You can also opt for themed packaging or include goodies that tie into the party theme, like small toys, stickers, or sweet treats.
To take it up a notch, consider customised keepsakes such as engraved keychains, personalised pencils, or mini photo frames. These thoughtful extras not only make the favours more memorable but also add a special touch that shows you went the extra mile to create a fun and meaningful experience for everyone.
How can I creatively include party favours in kids’ party activities?
Incorporating party favours into activities can add an extra layer of fun and make the celebration stand out. For instance, setting up a DIY station with craft kits, stickers, or temporary tattoos lets kids unleash their creativity and make something special to take home. Another great option is to organise a gardening activity where kids can plant seed packets or small plants, blending hands-on entertainment with a bit of learning. These interactive ideas not only keep kids engaged during the party but also give them a thoughtful keepsake to cherish afterwards.