Quick Answer: When choosing a kids’ party entertainer, check three things before anything else: an Enhanced DBS check, public liability insurance of at least £5 million, and verified independent reviews (Google or Facebook — not just testimonials on their own website). The average children’s entertainer in the UK charges £150–£300 for a 90-minute show. Always get the booking confirmed in writing. Find vetted entertainers near you through the FunzEventz supplier directory — searchable by area and entertainment type.
You’ve found someone online. The photos look great. The price seems fair. They say they’re available on your date.
So you book them.
And then, two weeks before your child’s party, you start wondering: do I actually know anything about this person?
It’s a question more parents should ask earlier. Because choosing a children’s entertainer isn’t like booking a DJ for a work event. These are people who will be in your home or venue, with your children, for up to two hours.
The good ones are brilliant. They take the whole party off your hands, they read the room, and they leave you with nothing to do except watch your child have the best time.
The less good ones — well. Let’s just say not all entertainers who market to children have the same level of professionalism, safety checks, or experience.
Here’s exactly what to look for.
What Do You Check Before Booking a Kids’ Party Entertainer?
Before you discuss themes, prices, or availability, three things must be verified — they are non-negotiable.
1. Enhanced DBS Check
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check confirms an entertainer has been vetted and has no criminal record that would make them unsuitable to work with children. Every professional children’s entertainer should have an Enhanced DBS Check — not a basic check. The distinction matters.
Ask for it directly. A reputable entertainer sends it without hesitation. If someone becomes defensive, evasive, or says “I’m getting it renewed,” treat that as a red flag.
2. Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance protects both the entertainer and you if something goes wrong — a child trips, a prop breaks, something gets damaged. Most venues require proof of this before allowing an entertainer on site.
Ask for the certificate. It should be current and show minimum cover of £5 million — many show £10 million. Anything lower, or absent entirely, is a problem.
3. Verified Independent Reviews
A testimonial on an entertainer’s own website is marketing. Anyone can write or curate those.
What you want is reviews on independent platforms: Google, Facebook, Bark.com, or a verified directory. Look for reviews that mention specific details — the entertainer’s name, what they did, how the children responded. Generic five-star reviews with no content tell you very little.
Also check how they respond to negative reviews. A professional who handles criticism well takes their reputation seriously.
What Questions Should You Ask a Children’s Entertainer?
Once the three basics check out, these questions help you find the right match for your specific party.
“What age group do you specialise in?” A magician who is brilliant with 8–12 year olds can completely lose a room of 4 year olds. Ask directly. A good entertainer is honest about where they shine.
“How many children can you comfortably manage?” Some entertainers work best with 10–15 children; others are experienced with 30 or more. Match their capacity to your guest list — not the other way around.
“What happens if you’re ill or have an emergency on the day?” This tells you everything. A professional has a plan: a network of colleagues to call, a cancellation policy, a refund process. “That’s never happened to me” is not a plan.
“Can I see a show reel or recent video?” Photos can be staged. A short video of an entertainer actually performing — children laughing, engaged, reacting — tells you far more than any headshot or promo image.
“What do you need from me on the day?” Set-up time, space requirements, power sources, specific layout needs. Knowing this in advance prevents day-of surprises.
What Type of Entertainer Is Right for Your Child’s Age?
Matching the entertainment type to the age group is as important as the entertainer’s individual skills.
| Age Group | What Works Well |
|---|---|
| 1–3 years | Gentle characters, bubble shows, puppet shows — calm and visual |
| 3–6 years | Princess/character visits, magic shows, bubble machines, parachute games |
| 5–8 years | Magicians, face painters, science shows, superhero training sessions |
| 7–11 years | Craft workshops, slime scientists, dance parties, escape room-style activities |
| 12+ years | DJ hire, photo booths, comedy magic, immersive or team experiences |
Mixed age groups are common at family parties. The best entertainers can read a room and adjust — ask specifically if they have experience with mixed ages and what they do differently.
What Are the Red Flags When Hiring a Kids’ Party Entertainer?
Beyond the paperwork, trust your instincts on these warning signs:
- Slow or vague communication before booking — if they take days to respond to enquiries, that pattern rarely improves after payment
- No written contract or confirmation — always get the booking confirmed in writing: date, time, duration, fee, and cancellation terms
- Prices dramatically below market rate — the UK average for a 90-minute children’s show is £150–£300; significantly below that can indicate inexperience or missing insurance
- Reluctance to provide DBS or insurance documents — a professional has nothing to hide and will send these without being chased
How Does FunzEventz Help You Find the Right Entertainer?
Finding an entertainer through a cold Google search involves significant legwork and a fair amount of trust in a stranger.
The FunzEventz supplier directory lists children’s entertainers with verified details, filtered by location and entertainment type. You can check availability and enquire directly through the app — no cold calls, no chasing unanswered emails, no wondering whether the person you’ve found is legitimate.
Once your entertainer is booked, manage the rest of the party in the same place: guest list, digital invites, RSVP tracking, dietary requirements. Everything in one app, from first invitation to final headcount.
We asked parents what they most wanted from party planning: 75% said saving time and managing costs were their top priorities. Having suppliers, invitations, and RSVPs in one place directly addresses both.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Kids’ Party Entertainer
Does a children’s entertainer need a DBS check?
Yes — any entertainer working with children should have an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. This is the highest level of vetting available in the UK and confirms the entertainer has no convictions that would make them unsuitable to work with children. A basic DBS check is not sufficient. Always ask for the certificate before confirming a booking.
How much does a kids’ party entertainer cost in the UK?
The average children’s entertainer in the UK charges £150–£300 for a 90-minute show. Prices vary by region — London is typically 20–30% higher. Specialist acts (animatronic dinosaurs, character visit packages, science shows with full equipment) can run £300–£500. Always get a written quote that includes all costs.
How far in advance should you book a children’s entertainer?
Book at least 6–8 weeks in advance for a standard weekend booking. Popular entertainers and specialist acts (princess characters, dinosaur suits) are often booked 3–4 months ahead, particularly for summer and school holiday dates. If your party date is fixed, book the entertainer before anything else.
What insurance does a children’s entertainer need?
A professional children’s entertainer needs current public liability insurance with a minimum cover of £5 million. Many carry £10 million cover. Venues typically require proof of this before allowing the entertainer on site. Always ask to see the certificate — a reputable entertainer provides it immediately.
What’s the best type of entertainer for a mixed-age group?
An experienced magician or interactive game show host who explicitly works with mixed ages is typically the best option. Avoid character-specific entertainers (e.g., princess characters) for mixed-age groups, as the theme resonates unevenly. Ask the entertainer directly about their experience with mixed ages before booking.
What should a kids’ entertainer contract include?
A written confirmation or contract should specify: the entertainer’s full name and business name, the event date and start time, the duration of the performance, the full fee and payment terms, the cancellation policy (for both parties), and any specific requirements (space, power, set-up time). Never proceed without this in writing.
A great entertainer doesn’t just fill 90 minutes. They notice the shy child in the corner and bring them in gently. They manage the overexcited ones without making them feel told off. They leave your child glowing.
That’s worth taking the time to find properly.
Check the DBS. Check the insurance. Read the real reviews. Ask the questions.
And then let them do what they do.
Find vetted children’s entertainers near you on FunzEventz.
Create your free account, search the supplier directory by location and entertainment type, and manage your whole party from one place.
Because the right entertainer makes the party. And you deserve to enjoy it too.
Written by the FunzEventz team
