In this issue we welcome back Georgie Dolling, our original stylist and one of our theme developers from the first and second issues. Thanks for your great work Georgie; it is clear to see your enthusiasm and understanding of just what it takes to make a terrific party that pleases children, parents and carers alike. We also welcome a new member to our expanding team, Jessica Lawrie is our new editorial coordinator and she is doing a fabulous job helping pull together the myriad ideas we gather each issue.

The simply sensational Polka Dot Party gives you loads of ideas to put on a stylish party for older girls and the dynamic Dinosaur Party is so cute, and scary enough, that all little boys would love it! There is more to parties for kids than just birthdays, and in this issue we give you some sweet ideas for a charming christening celebration perfect for a baby boy or girl.

You are going to adore the Mermaid Party, and all the great ideas we share along with the party advice. Many of our supportive suppliers have worked with us to expand on the theme and bring you the latest concepts and products that are just hitting the market now.

What’s a party or celebration without some baked treats? As well as a cake recipe for each party, we share two more age birthday cakes – 9 and 10. We show you how to bake and decorate delicious Easter cookies. Plus, we share insights into creating perfect piped icing that you can use on cakes and cookies for that oh-so-perfect finish.

We continue to be dedicated to providing the practical information that helps you make informed decisions about related topics. Whether you have party leftovers or are preparing party food before the day, we share some advice from the experts on how to store food safely. Plus, we’ve asked some child injury and safety experts to share their tips on game safety.

Recently I was at a party for one of my six-year-old son’s school friends. The mum had diligently and creatively prepared loot bags for each party child. One of the party guest’s siblings caught sight of these colourful bags – and at a glance he knew exactly what was in them! Yes, loot! The fact that one had not been prepared for him was beside the point, and he wailed until the adults caved in and gave him one (fortunately one guest had not arrived). That experience leads me to advise (and I’ve noted it for when next I put on a kids party too!) that it’s a good idea to prepare extra bags for those sweet little siblings who don’t understand missing out on this favourite party treat. To help inspire you, we bring you all more loot bags and fillers suggestions; after all, no party is complete without a loot bag. Just ask any party guest, or sibling, who has been to a party!