A Christmas party is a wonderful way to celebrate the joy and magic of the season. It's also a great opportunity for children to socialise outside of school. There are some traditional party games that could easily be adapted for the holidays. For example, a game of musical chairs played with Christmas music is a fun twist on an old favourite. 'Pin the nose on Santa' is another adaptation where you can have the children try to get a red dot on Santa's nose while blindfolded. You can buy a cheap cut-out of Father Christmas at a craft or pound shop or even make him yourself.

Other ideas are doing a scavenger hut. Group the children into pairs or trios and have them find things around the house. You could include Christmassy things such as characters from the nativity scene, Christmas tree ornaments, home-made biscuits, Christmas chocolates and bits and bobs themed in Christmas colours.

Baking is another brilliant party activity that will entertain and delight youngsters. However, it'll be easier to cope only a small number in the kitchen! They can make and decorate gingerbread men or cut out and decorate Christmassy shaped biscuits.

Another suggestion is to include crafts in your party plans. Have the children make Christmas ornaments out of felt or Styrofoam shapes. They might also enjoy decorating stockings using sequins and fabric paint. Be creative!

Carol singing is a very festive closing activity for the party. Children can sing-a-long to a Christmas CD or piano. It might be a good idea to choose several songs and have lyrics available for the children to read. Enjoy yourself and if you can video the party or take photos you can share with the other parents.