Does this sound familiar? Your little one’s 3rd birthday is fast approaching. You invest heaps of effort into planning the bash, but once the festivities wind down, you find yourself tossing out heaps of waste. All the balloons, plates and gift wrapping. Then it hits you: this happened last year, and the year before, and each time you think you’d like to be more prepared and try to curb the waste.

Here are some practical ideas to help you host a sustainable kids party without compromising on the fun.

Reusable Party Kit: Invest in a birthday party kit that includes reusable cups, plates, and decorations. These can be used year after year, reducing waste from disposable items. Maybe keep them in a picnic basket. You can start this when the kid is at an early age, and keep it going for every party after.

DIY Decor: Get creative with homemade decorations like bunting made from fabric scraps or recyclable paper. You can turn it into a fun family activity by getting the kids involved in the crafting. There are plenty of instructions you can find online on how to make bunting.

Sustainable Food Choices: Reduce packaging waste by buying in bulk and serving food in reusable containers. If you have the time and energy, look into baking or cooking party foods instead of buying items individually wrapped in plastic.

Choose Paper Over Plastic: When disposable items are necessary, choose biodegradable or compostable paper products over plastic. These are better for the environment and can often be recycled or chucked in the FOGO bin.

Minimise Gift Wrap: Wrap gifts in reusable materials like fabric or newspaper, or opt out of wrapping gifts and instead put them in a gift bag or gift basket.

Eco-friendly Activities: Plan games and activities that involve minimal waste, such as nature scavenger hunts or craft stations using recycled materials.

Consider Second Hand Presents: This is friendly on the wallet as much as the environment. Encourage little guests to choose one of their own toys they no longer use to share with the birthday kid, or ask guests to bring a book or item from the Op Shop.

Just a few small changes in party planning can lead to significant reductions in waste, and is a great lifelong lesson for kids.