Their favorite.
Their birthday.

Start by thinking about how your child would like to be welcomed. Some children light up when the mermaid arrives with a shell or a message from the sea, while others prefer a calmer, one-to-one introduction. Discuss these ideas with the team: a short arrival story that calls the birthday child by name, a gentle invitation to help the mermaid find a lost treasure, or a sing-along if your child enjoys music. Ask which activities suit your child, since a shy guest and a bold guest will need different kinds of attention.

When you describe the theme, mention whether your child is more interested in the undersea world, the friendships with ocean creatures, or the idea of exploring above the waves. Those choices shape the whole visit and help the team suggest realistic examples rather than generic ones.

An outdoor party can feel especially fitting for an ocean theme, because a garden or park setting lets children imagine a shoreline or a hidden cove. Think about shade, space to move, and whether guests can gather in a loose circle around the performer. Ask the venue to confirm what is permitted for outside entertainment before you commit, since rules differ by location and by the type of space you choose.

For an outdoor visit, consider a shell or pebble hunt along a designated lawn area, a bubble moment that echoes waves, or a story walk where the mermaid guides children from one spot to the next. Keep activities simple so that a breeze or a change in weather does not disrupt the plan, and have a clear backup in case the setting becomes uncomfortable.

If the weather is unpredictable or your guest list prefers a enclosed space, an indoor room can become a lovely undersea world. Blue and green decorations, a corner for a sea-themed story, and a clear area for dancing can all help the visit feel immersive. Ask the venue how much space is available, whether tables and chairs can be moved, and what the arrival and set-up routine looks like.

When planning indoors, consider noise levels, the number of children in the room, and where parents will wait. A smaller, calmer room may suit a child who is sensitive to loud sounds, while a larger hall may give more space for a group sing-along or a simple game of catch with a beach ball.

Every child settles into a party at a different pace, so plan the visit as a rhythm rather than a performance. A gentle opening, a middle section with a few optional activities, and a closing moment with the birthday child at the centre can keep the energy balanced. Discuss these ideas with the team and ask which activities suit your child and the group's age range.

Finally, talk through the handoff. Confirm the arrival time, who will meet the performer, where the costume will be changed if needed, and when the visit will end. Share any allergies, mobility needs or sensory preferences in advance so the team can plan with you. A clear, unhurried handoff helps the adult performer begin warmly and leaves the birthday child with a happy memory.