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Tips for an Ethical, Green Party Foolish over-indulgence has given way to a new trend at children's parties and, with the party circuit often following the same old tired formula, staging something completely different is the new way to stand out from the crowd. As mums become increasingly environmentally conscious, it makes sense that we should begin to look for eco-friendly alternatives to the typical plastic, pile-it-high children's party which are often followed by the distribution of plastic bags filled with plastic breakable toys. Follow our top tips for an eco-friendly birthday party - with a few small changes to your normal routine and some creative ideas you can really make a difference with your next celebration! Setting a theme for your party will focus your purchases and really pull everything together. Sit down with the birthday boy or girl and try to set a theme they would enjoy. Themes could have an environmental spin especially Farmyard or Jungle, teach your children to think about the choices they make so they have fun planning the party and protecting the planet at the same time! Have the party at home or if space would be an issue try a community space such as your local village hall. Try to use recycled invitations or send e-vites to guests. There is no an abundance of choice so you don't have to hand out a plastic bag filled with plastic toys - choose re-usable 100% cotton party bags and fill them with ethical traditional wooden toys such as animal topped pencils, spinning tops and wooden jewellery. Organic fair-trade chocolate is now widely available, try Montezuma's (http://www.montezumas.co.uk/) for a real treat! Rather than disposable plastic decorations, go for the stylish option by choosing 100% cotton party bunting, which can be re-used year after year, or even displayed in your child's bedroom as a lovely year round decoration and reminder after the party. Choose streamers which can be recycled afterwards, and always use natural latex balloons, which are made with natural sap of the rubber tree. Latex balloons will biodegrade within around six months, which is the same as an oak leaf. Use natural raffia in place of plastic strings to tie them in place. Buy local, organic food and try to find the time to make it yourself so the kids don't get hyperactive from colourings and flavorings. http://www.littlecherry.co.uk/ has some great articles and recipes for healthy party food if you don't have any ideas. Try using crockery you already have and link it to your theme by choosing colourful serviettes, which can be recycled after the party. If this isn't an option, use organic bamboo tableware which is completely biodegradable, or dishwasher safe, recycled plastic plates which can be re-used again and again. If you too are concerned by the amount of plastic presents which turn up at the party, why not simply ask guests to not buy plastic toys and recommend traditional wooden toys, colouring books or jigsaw puzzles instead. Obviously choose a tactful way to make this request or even suggest you make the party a toy swap affair! All the products mentioned in this article are available from http://www.littlecherry.co.uk/ where you can also find more great party hints and tips!
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