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 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 hositng 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. Kmart has all the party essentials to really make your decorations pop, no matter the theme.

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, silicone beads from Kmart. Look for alphabet beads too so they can make their names.

·         Keyring clips & clasps: sturdy lobster claws or split rings from Mr Minit.

·         Cord or String: durable nylon or elastic cord that fits through the bead holes, which you can find at Hot Bargain.

1.     Slime Making

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

What you’ll need:

·         Slime making kits: these days you can find kits which have ingredients to make slime already packaged together. You can pick up a few options at Kmart.

·         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. Find a great range at Hot Bargain.

·         Assorted mix-ins: beads, pom poms, sequins and play foam can add 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.

2.     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 from Robins Kitchen or Kmart

·         Stickers: pick up a range of stickers from The Reject Shop like letters, animals, 3D styles etc, so there is something for every child.

·         Washi tape: great for creating cool geometric patterns or borders.

3.     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. You can find a great range at Hot Bargain

·         Iron-on patches: go for a variety of themes like space, animals, letters, foods, sports, or emojis. Kmart have heaps to choose from.

Create a birthday our 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, so come in-centre to find everything you need for the perfect at-home birthday surprise.