Planning a children’s party is exciting, but finding the right entertainer can feel overwhelming. Search for children’s entertainers Derby and you’ll see a long list of options – magicians, discos, character visits, and more. How do you know who will actually keep the children engaged and make the day stress-free for you?
With over 30 years’ experience entertaining families across Derbyshire and 500+ 5-star reviews, I’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t). Here are seven practical tips to help you choose the right children’s entertainer in Derby.
1. Check reviews – and how recent they are
Star ratings are important, but the story behind the stars matters even more. When comparing childrens entertainers in Derby, look for:
- A good number of reviews (not just one or two)
- Recent feedback from the last 6–12 months
- Comments about how the entertainer handled different ages, shy children, or last-minute changes
Consistent, recent reviews show that the entertainer is still active, reliable, and delivering great parties week after week.
2. Look for clear information about age range
Not every entertainer is right for every age. A show that works brilliantly for 3–5 year olds might not land as well with a room full of 9 year olds.
When you’re researching children’s entertainers Derby, check that they clearly state:
- The age range they specialise in
- How they adapt the show for different groups
- Whether they can handle mixed ages (siblings, cousins, school friends)
This helps you avoid parties where half the room is bored and the other half is overwhelmed.
3. Ask what’s included – and what’s not
Some Derby children’s entertainers offer a simple 45-minute show. Others provide complete party packages with magic, disco, games, prizes and more. Neither is right or wrong – but you need to know exactly what you’re getting.
Good questions to ask:
- How long are you there for in total?
- Do you provide music and sound equipment?
- Are prizes included, or do we supply them?
- Do you stay for the whole party or just part of it?
A clear breakdown helps you compare like-for-like when looking at different childrens entertainers in Derby.
4. Check insurance and safety
It’s not the most exciting part of party planning, but it’s essential. A professional children’s entertainer should be:
- Fully insured (Public Liability Insurance)
- Using PAT tested electrical equipment
- Happy to provide documentation to your venue if needed
Many venues in Derby now ask for these details before confirming a booking, so it’s worth checking early.
5. Make sure they understand your venue
Space and layout can make a big difference to how well a party runs. When speaking to children’s entertainers in Derby, mention:
- The size of the room
- Whether there’s a stage or clear performance area
- Access and parking for unloading equipment
- Any noise limits or shared spaces
An experienced entertainer will be able to advise on the best setup and tell you honestly if the space is too small for certain equipment (like a full disco or photo booth).
6. Look for good communication from the start
Your experience as a parent starts long before the party. Pay attention to how quickly and clearly the entertainer replies:
- Do they answer your questions directly?
- Do they confirm everything in writing?
- Do they give you a clear price and what it includes?
Good communication is usually a sign of a well-organised professional – and that makes your party day much smoother.
7. Choose someone who fits your child’s personality
Finally, think about your child. Are they shy, loud, energetic, or somewhere in between? When you speak to potential childrens entertainers in Derby, ask:
- How do you handle shy children?
- Do you force anyone to join in, or is it gentle encouragement?
- Can you include my child’s favourite song or theme?
The best children’s entertainer will feel like a good personality match for your child and your family, not just a name on a list.
Looking for a Children’s Entertainer in Derby?
If you’re currently searching for childrens entertainers Derby, I offer:
- Magic, disco, and games for ages 3–9
- Fully hosted parties so you can relax
- 30+ years’ experience and 500+ 5-star reviews
- Coverage of Derby and the surrounding areas
You can see more details and a dedicated page for Derby families here:
Visit our Derby children’s entertainer page