Start a children's party host and entertainer business

Parents and carers booking birthday parties, usually for children aged 3 to 9.

A fixed fee per party, often by package length or theme, with extras such as balloon models, face painting or party bags.

• Confident and fun with groups of children
• Organised and reliable
• Good at talking to parents and taking bookings

• Public liability insurance, and ask whether venues you work in require proof of it
• Check whether you need an enhanced DBS check, as many parents and venues ask for one
• Safeguarding: plan how you handle accidents, allergies and children who are upset
• Playing copyrighted music at parties may need a licence in some venues, check with the venue
• Weekends are busiest, so be realistic about your availability

Startup costs are typically around £200 to £1,000, depending on the props, music equipment, games and insurance you choose. These are estimates, so list what you need for your themes and price your bookings to cover them.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £2,000, depending on how many bookings you take and the fees you charge. Weekends are busiest, so be realistic about your availability when estimating income.

Check public liability insurance and whether venues want proof of it. Check whether you need an enhanced DBS check, as many parents and venues ask for one. Also check music licensing with each venue and plan your safeguarding approach.