Invite the whole class - most school classes have about 25 children. The chances are not all the children will attend (even some that rsvp won't!) but a few that weren't invited may also turn up (like brothers and sisters). This will mean that the average party has between 20-25 children, which is a good number. Having less can sometimes make some feel self-conscious, and having too many can make it harder to control them all. Bear in mind this is a guideline, Magic Rob has performed shows with just 3 children, through to over 120! By inviting all the class it also avoids any potential embarrassment if a child isn't invited, especially as children change their best friend on a daily basis!

Avoid helium balloons - although helium balloons look good and are fun when walking outside, they can cause a distraction to children, especially when a toddler wants to play with one mid-way through the magic show. If you still want to have balloons then it is best to either fasten them to the walls as decoration or put at the back of the room during the entertainment.

Don't buy too much food - Try to estimate the number of children as accurately as possible and buy a corresponding amount of food. Over recent years carrot sticks and strawberries are becoming more popular than traditional sausage rolls and ice-creams, and some children may be vegetarian. Remember that you may need to cater for any adults that stay, so a few regular sandwiches may be a good idea. Magic Rob will helpfully get rid of any surplus food, and will wash it down with a cup of tea (milk, no sugar!)

Ask the teacher to distribute the invitations - unfortunately children aren't very good at administration and invites can often be left in drawers at school. Politely ask the teacher to hand out the flyers and remind the children to return them after a few days.

Have a spare cake - this one is a little cheeky, but if you have a special cake that you've decorated you may want to use this cake for the candle blowing, but have another similar cake that you can cut into pieces, wrap in kitchen towel and hand out at the end of the party. This is especially useful if you are having a party in a local hall with school friends and a smaller family party at home.

Book everything well in advance - Magic Rob often gets calls from people looking to arrange a last minute party, and often he is already booked. To avoid disappointment try and book the venue and Magic Rob at least 2 months in advance. Magic Rob has been booked over a year in advance by parents to ensure that they have him for their party.

Make name badges - if you only use one of these tips, it should be this one! Simply get some envelope address labels and as each child turns write their name clearly and stick it onto their chest. It is unlikely that you will know the names of all the children, and children will respond to their name more readily than calling out "you, the blonde boy with the blue top on. No, not you, the other one. Yes the one by the... oh, don't worry now..."