Kids party entertainer: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What kids party entertainer is

A kids party entertainer leads games, songs and activities at a children's party, keeping the kids engaged so the host can enjoy the day. People book one for birthdays and family gatherings when the party needs a plan and an adult who knows how to run a group of children.

Signs you need it

  • You are hosting a party with a group of children and want someone to run the activities
  • The party has a long stretch between arrival, food and gifts that needs filling
  • You want games and songs that suit a specific age range
  • You want the host to relax and enjoy the party rather than run the games
  • The guest list is large enough that one adult cannot manage the group alone
  • You want a themed program that matches the party's theme

What the pro does

  • Asks about the number of children, their ages, the theme and the length of the program
  • Plans a sequence of games, songs and activities that suit the age range
  • Arrives early to check the space and set out any props
  • Leads the kids through the program at the times agreed with the host
  • Adapts the activities for shy kids, active kids and the group's energy
  • Packs up props and clears the space at the end

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Length of the program and the number of kids in the group
  • Age range and whether the entertainer needs to split the group
  • Themed props, costumes or extras such as bubbles or a parachute
  • Travel distance and arrival time at the party space
  • Whether the entertainer works indoors, outdoors or both
  • Whether a second helper joins for a larger group
  • Whether the entertainer also runs a gift opening or a cake moment

What a written quote should spell out

  • Length of the program and the number of kids planned for
  • Age range and the type of games and songs in the program
  • Props, costumes and extras the entertainer brings
  • Space needs, such as a clear floor and an outdoor area if needed
  • Arrival, setup and departure times
  • What happens if the entertainer cannot attend

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What ages do you usually run programs for, and how do you split a mixed group?
  • What games do you lead, and can I suggest games the kids already know?
  • How do you handle a child who does not want to join in?
  • What space and props do you need from the host?
  • Can I see a video of a program with kids in a party space?
  • How do you adapt the activities for a group with a wide age range?
  • Does your insurance cover activities with children, and can you share any background check you hold?

Red flags

  • They do not ask about the ages, the number of kids or the party space
  • They plan games with small parts or equipment that could be a choking risk for young children
  • They have no plan for supervising kids during games
  • They promise a program with no written plan or game list
  • They will not confirm the arrival time or the space they need in writing

What you can do yourself

You can list the ages of the kids, their favorite games and any allergies or medical needs for the party. You can also clear a play space and set out chairs for a circle. Hire an entertainer for leading the group, managing the timing and keeping the children safe during games, since running activities for a group of kids takes experience.

Licenses and permits

No state license is usually required for a kids party entertainer, so ask for proof of liability insurance and references from children's parties instead. Parks, schools and some venues have their own rules for outside entertainers and for supervising children, so check those with the site and your state or local licensing agency.

Kids party entertainer questions

Does a kids party entertainer need a license?

Usually not a state license. Ask for insurance and references, and check any rules the venue or school has for outside entertainers who work with children.

Who supervises the kids during the program?

The host or another adult should stay present and supervise. Agree on who handles bathroom breaks, snacks and any child who needs a parent.

How long should the program last?

It depends on the ages. Ask the entertainer for a length that fits the attention span of the youngest guests and leaves time for food and gifts.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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