Best Birthday Party Ideas For A 12 Year Old

It’s amazing how quick the birthday year comes around, right? And once again, you’re on the hunt for another birthday event. One to top the last year, or even just to mix up the experience? Its tricky to know where to start, so we have compiled a list of the most popular for you. 

• Junior Paintball

Its worth a bet that your Birthday child may already like playing Fortnite, Roblox, and has already developed impossibly rapid reflexes, and some very sore thumbs to boot! But what if there was a way kids could utilise those skills — and develop them — in a real-life environment? At UKPaintball, your kids can. The bonus is that paintball is a great outdoor activity for all age groups offering high-adrenaline fun, in a safe and controlled setting. On that subject, we do get frequently asked about safety and the gameplay. And that’s understandable, especially when it’s a party and other people’s kids you’re taking. Although its hard not to notice that you have been hit by a paintball, it mostly depends on the distance you are from the shooter, but for most, It’s a similar feeling to a rubber band sting on the arm. Our supplied overalls are heavy duty, and combined with layering up with clothing underneath this will help protect from the impact of the paintball. Our experienced Marshals are involved in the games, ensuring that fun is being had and equally that all players are adhering to the safety in the gameplay that is briefed at the start of the day. 

For junior players between the ages of 11-15 we offer a 3 hour session which is made up of £9.99 for Admission, including equipment rental, full training and on field supervision and then a reduced payment on the day for the paintballs. The paintballs should last the morning or afternoon session and is also perfect for birthday parties as the parent know exactly what the total cost is upfront.  So, for a birthday party of 5 children, a budget of around £150 will give the kids an epic paintball session with everything included whilst at an affordable price.

• Go Karting

It may only be a few years before your child is sounding you out for their first car purchase! Karting serves as a precursor to driving, allowing Tweens to develop their motoring abilities before they get behind the wheel for real on the roads. Quite like Paintballing, Karting is a fantastic Party idea for 12-year-olds, and is a mental and physical challenge, Akin to a high-intensity chess match, on wheels! Before teens hit the track, safety is a top priority. From helmets designed specifically for karting to protective clothing, every measure ensures a secure and enjoyable experience. Safety first, always! Whilst the experience can work out more expensive than paintball, many karting venues offer group discounts and memberships, making it more economical when tweens go karting with friends or family. 

• Football Party

If you’re looking for another activity out in the open and a great workout for the kids, why not a football party? Plenty of football drills can be turned into party games including penalty shootouts, dribbling, and shooting, and piggy in the middle as well as a match at the end. Pitch hire is usually done by the hour and this can be a great option if you want to invite the entire class for a full on 11-a-side! Its great value as a hosted party of up to 25 Kids can cost under £300 (with a trained supervisor), including some light refreshments at many venues. Be prepared to spend a bit more if you want more of a meal for the team also. 

• Rock Climbing

A rock-climbing party is exciting, different, and full of fun activity. Most birthday parties at a rock climbing walls last approximately 1-2 hours and contain a mix of rope climbing and fun games like tug-a-war, twister on the climbing wall, sharks, and minnows, etc. Indoor Climbing is a great sport/birthday idea and an hour’s session can cost a around £8 per child. This does leave a bit more in the kitty to get the Pizzas and Nuggets in! 

“Climbing requires a lot of problem-solving, mental concentration and focus, so it helps sharpen your brain. A lot of people like it as it allows you to escape everyday worries and just focus on the climb. It also can give a great sense of achievement.” - The British Mountaineering Council. 

• Aqua Park

Getting the kids wet and splashing around is another popular idea. Although these Party’s are often not hosted, it’s a chance for the Mum or Dad to dig out her Speedos and dive in with the kids and take on some slides/flumes. Another great thing is that younger siblings can often come along for the fun. With some other activities, siblings are often left on the sidelines which can cause some family friction. It is also worth considering both indoor and outdoor activities as venues are offering both, come rain or shine. 

So, there you have some options for your 12th birthday event, to keep them active and entertained this year!