These days, kids' parties can be terribly competitive. And hiring an entertainer or a play centre does not come cheap. But you really don't have to spend a lot of money to give your kids a birthday to remember.

Think back to your own childhood, and the secret thrill of Pass the Parcel, and Pin the Tail on the Donkey. And you can't beat face painting, or a sleepover, for birthday fun on a budget.