Affordable kid's birthday party ideas: 'I've never spent that kind of money on their birthday parties again': Sydney mum's regret after birthday budget blowouts

When my children were younger, I used to spend way too much on their birthday parties. Little did I know they would be too young to remember them.

There was the one where I hired an entire petting zoo to set up in our backyard, which cost $600, and ?then the one at Luna Park, which cost $700.

If I knew better, I would have saved that cash for when they were a bit older!

I've never spent that kind of money on their birthday parties again �C firstly because I didn't have that sort of cash to spare, and secondly because I thought of so many ways to throw them awesome birthday celebrations at a fraction of the cost.

Watch the video above?

affordable kids birthday party ideas — Jo Abi with her daughter Caterina. (Supplied)

Step 1: Identify and steel yourself against common traps

Avoid inviting too many children;
Don't try and outdo previous parties you have attended?;
Don't leave things until the past minute?.

Step 2: Decide on a budget

Decide exactly how much you want to spend;
Make your budget detailed, divided into food, cake, gifts and activities;
Stick to it, you'll be happy you did?.

Step 3: Choose a budget-friendly kid's party setting

Host the party at home or at the home of a family member;
Choose a local park that is easily accessible;
Parks with play equipment are ideal?.

Step 4: Save on supplies

Look through what you already have at home;
Purchase only what you need from discount stores;
Make your own invitations, you can download them for free from websites?.

Step 5: Affordable activities?

Check out Groupon, which is currently advertising activities such as bowling for more than 50 per cent off;
Redeem government vouchers such as Creative Kids and Active Kids if booking you party at a local activity centre;
?Ask a friend or family member to lead kids activities at home or at the park, including making slime, painting faces or creating balloon swords and animals, with simple instructions to be found online.