Knowing what to ask a children's entertainer before you book saves a lot of worry later. You're trusting someone with a room full of small children for a couple of hours, so it's completely reasonable to ask questions. Any good entertainer will be happy to answer them.
Here's what we'd ask, and why each one matters.
Do you have a DBS check?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check shows whether someone has a relevant criminal record. Many children's entertainers have one, and it's a sensible thing to ask about. Ask how recent it is too.
Bear in mind that you, the parent, will usually be in the room the whole time. But schools, nurseries and clubs will often need to see it before booking, so check what your venue requires.
Are you insured?
Public liability insurance covers accidents and damage during the party. Some halls insist on seeing a certificate before they'll let an entertainer perform, so ask early and pass it on if needed.
It's a quick yes or no question, and it's worth asking every time.
How much space do you need?
Entertainers need a clear area to perform in, plus room for the children to sit in front. For a living room party this matters a lot. Tell them the room size and number of children and ask if it'll work.
Mention anything unusual too, like a low ceiling, stairs to carry kit up, or a garden party with no cover. They'll tell you what they need.
Do you need a power socket?
Most entertainers use music, and many bring a speaker that plugs in. Ask whether they need a socket and how close it should be. In some halls the sockets are all on one wall, which affects where they'll set up.
Garden parties need extra thought. If there's no outdoor power, check if they can run on batteries.
What about allergies, including latex balloons?
This one gets missed. Many modelling balloons are made from latex, and latex allergy can be serious. If any guest has a latex allergy, tell the entertainer when you book so they can plan around it.
Also mention food allergies if they give out sweets as prizes. Some entertainers use stickers or small toys instead, but it's best to check rather than assume.
- Latex allergy (balloons, some gloves)
- Food allergies, for sweet prizes
- Children sensitive to loud noise or bangs
- Any guests with additional needs
What's included in the price?
Packages vary a lot, so ask exactly what you're getting. A full party might include a magic show, party games, music, prizes and balloon modelling. A shorter booking might be the show only.
Ask how long they'll be performing, not just how long they'll be there. And check whether they'll work around your food break. For a sense of typical costs, see our price guide.
What time will you arrive?
Most entertainers arrive a little before the party to set up quietly. Ask how long they need, and whether they need parking or help unloading. If the hall is only booked from the party start time, sort this before the day.
And swap mobile numbers in case of traffic or a last minute change.
How do you handle shy or overexcited children?
A good entertainer reads the room. They'll know how to gently include a shy child without forcing them, and how to calm a group that's bouncing off the walls. Ask how they do it. The answer tells you a lot about their experience.
It's also worth asking what age groups they usually work with. Someone brilliant with eight year olds may not suit a room of toddlers, and the other way round.
If your child has additional needs, or is nervous in big groups, mention it early. A thoughtful entertainer will happily adjust the show, maybe keeping volume down or letting your child help from the side.
What happens if something goes wrong?
Ask about cancellation. What if they're ill, or you need to move the date? Knowing their policy upfront avoids awkward conversations later.
When you book through us, we'll confirm the details for your booking before anything is set in stone. If you'd like a hand finding someone, our children's entertainer page explains how it works.