Planning a kids’ birthday party at home? Add a sprinkle of DIY magic to the big day with an activity packed party they’ll never forget. Transform your space into a vibrant party zone with these fun (and easy) setup ideas from content creator and mum, Despina Notaras (@diaryofdespina).

Despina’s budget-friendly tips and ideas cover everything. From iconic birthday décor inspiration to creative and fun activities perfect for kids of any age, so you can make hosting an at-home party a breeze.

Decorate to celebrate

Transforming your home into the ultimate party pad all starts with the perfect décor. Think sparkly tinsel backdrops, colourful balloons, and bright tablecloths just to name a few. Altona Gate has all the party essentials to really make your decorations pop, no matter the theme. With stores such as House + Party, Kmart, Priceline, Coles and Sacca's Fine Foods.

Activity stations that spark creativity

Keep the energy high and everyone entertained with activity stations that kids of all ages will love. Let their creativity shine with some hands-on fun, plus they’ll get to make something of their own to take home.

Despina’s top tip: When it comes to styling the activity stations, lay everything out to create a look that’s colourful, inviting, and ready for the kids to dive right in and rotate at their own pace.

Here are a few of Despina’s favourite at-home kid's party activities:

1.     Beaded Keyrings

Kids can create a personalised charm to add to their school bags.

What you’ll need:

• Assorted beads: pick up a mix of wooden, acrylic, and silicone beads in various shapes and colours from . Look for alphabet beads too so they can make their names.
• Keyring clips & clasps: sturdy lobster claws or split rings.
• Cord or String: durable nylon or elastic cord that fits through the bead holes.

2.     Slime Making

Set up a slime station for a fun, sensory experience.

What you’ll need:

• Slime making kits: these days you can find handy kits which have ingredients to make slime already packaged together.
• Figurines: little plastic critters like dinosaurs, zoo animals or even your child’s favourite character are great additions for the kids to play with in the slime.
• Assorted mix-ins: beads, pom poms, sequins and play foam can add some interesting textures to the slime. These sometimes come in the slime making sets too.
• Mini glass jars: A great way to store the slime so each kid can take theirs home.

3.     Decorated Tumblers

Kids will love adding stickers to create their own unique tumbler.

What you’ll need:

• Blank tumblers or drink bottles: simple, solid-coloured or clear plastic tumblers or bottles..
• Stickers: pick up a range of stickers like letters, animals, 3D styles etc, so there is something for every child.
• Washi tape: great for creating cool geometric patterns or borders.

4.     Patch pouches

Let kids show off their style by turning an everyday item into a one-of-a-kind piece.

What you’ll need:

• Plain canvas pouches: these could be pencil cases or even small makeup bags.
• Iron-on patches: go for a variety of themes like space, animals, letters, foods, sports, or emojis.

Create a birthday bash your kids will never forget. These activities give every child a unique treasure to take home that’s a great reminder of the fun they had at the party. With just a little planning and a pop of creativity, these affordable activities make entertaining kids of any age easy.

Best of all, you can pick up these party essentials at Altona Gate, so come in-centre to find everything you need for the perfect at-home birthday surprise.