When to Schedule the Children's Performer

Okay, you've decided to schedule a birthday party performer for the little apple of your eye and you're wondering where in the course of a 2 hour party to place him or her.  As a musician who has done over 1000 children's parties, I am often asked this question.   I recommend scheduling the show early because children are less likely to run roughshod through your house if it is clear to them from the beginning what fun is in store.  Also, the performer gets them wide-eyed and fresh.  Anywhere from 20 minutes to a half-hour after the starting time of your party is ideal.  Earlier can be problematic because some children are bound to arrive late.  However, I've done performances after children have been hanging out at a party for four hours and still gotten wonderful results.  (That's my job.)  Also, every rule has an exception: if you are inviting children at noon or 12:30, it's a good idea to feed them first.