Help your child become to star of the playground with these four party trends for 2019 that will have their friends looking on in awe.

And it’s not just about the kids – hosting an on-trend party means you’re more likely to collect Instagram-worthy memories and gorgeous photos your kids can look back on for years.

Surprise!

The classic surprise party is back in a big way, with parents and friends going all-out to surprise the guest of honour on their special day. The premise is simple: gather their closest friends in a beautifully decorated room, turn the lights out and lead the birthday boy or girl in. It’s a party plan that works every time – and for good reason!

Parents are also taking the element of surprise to a whole new level in 2019, by incorporating treats in unexpected ways. Stuff pinatas full of treats, hide a gift under the kids’ chairs, or scatter heaps of small presents around the house so the kids can have a treasure hunt. The options are only limited to your imagination.

Creative balloon art

You could string a couple of balloons up, or let the helium-filled kind float to the ceiling – or you could have some fun designing balloon decorations, garlands and centrepieces that are the stars of the show (not just afterthoughts).

Using balloons in even more creative ways is set to become one of the biggest trends of the year. Choose a colour theme and stick to it for older kids, or if you have younger kids at the party they may appreciate an all-out rainbow of colour. Or you could combine colourful balloons with flowers for an even more colourful touch

Not looking to spend too much money? You can use balloons in unexpected ways to create massive results.

• Dip them in PVA glue and different colours of glitter for a sparkly touch

• Fill them with confetti or small (child-safe) toys and play a game of who can pop the balloon first (a fun party game could involve a running race to get to the balloons first)

• Set up a craft stations with balloons, glue, pipe cleaners, icypole sticks, confetti, ribbons and markers and have the kids go crazy for half an hour or so (don’t forget to set up a plastic drop sheet underneath to catch all the mess…)

Sweet tooth

Gone are the days when parties were all about 100s and 1000s sprinkled on supermarket white bread. Go wild and unleash your creativity with the latest in food trends, which have now have seen edible glitter, ombre or drip icing and larger-than-life birthday cakes.

Speaking of birthday cakes, bigger is always better. The more eye catching kids’ cakes are most definitely multi-layered, and adorned with flowers, toys lollies and even donuts.

The great – and glam – outdoors

Every adult worth their Instagram feed has indulged in a spot of glamping – and the trend doesn’t seem to be stopping with the grown ups. Now, even kids are getting in on the action, with lavish outdoor glamping setups and alfresco party platters. Set up a few tents and spread the table with delicious treats and the kids can enjoy a day – or night – in the fresh air.