One mum on TikTok recently revealed her secret to reusing helium balloons – and all you need is a straw.

@twinklparents shared a clip where she simply rolled up her already partly deflated balloon, and then poked a straw through the hole.

After making sure she'd pushed out all the helium, she then wrapped the balloon tightly around a weight, so they were stored away for the next time she wanted to inflate them.

Genius!

One great way to save cash on your child's birthday present is to gift them with experiences instead.

Financial mentor and mum Elizabeth Buko points out that kids 'don't appreciate the value of money enough to appreciate an expensive gift' anyway, and thoughtful gifts and experiences can be just as meaningful.

Setting a budget for gifts can also help too.

When thinking about the theme of your child's birthday party, bear in mind there are loads of places kids can have an amazing day out for FREE.

For example, if your child's a fan of fire fighters, why not take them for a free tour of your local fire station?

Or if the weather looks dry, use the kids' favourite park!

There's no need to buy an overpriced birthday cake from the supermarket when you can make your own from home.

As well as saving money, homemade cakes often taste even better, too!

As well as making your cake from home, making your own food will save a ton. Sandwiches or pizza are much cheaper homemade and remember, less is actually more with kids who eat waaay less than you think they're going to when there's cake to be had!

Need some inspo? We've got some delicious recipe ideas here ...

You can save a LOT of money if you're savvy and order your party favours in plenty of time, in bulk.

And we've got some great party bag filler ideas for kids here too ...

But if budgets are super tight, don't feel pressured to give kids something for the sake of it. A party is a great gift in itself, after all!

Budgets are never going to stretch to hiring a photographer these days but if you're a dab hand with your camera phone, why not take them yourself.

And, as a going home present, send a gorgeous pic of the kids having fun at the party, to each parent. They'll love it and it won't cost you a thing!

Save a ton of money on drinks by asking each guest to bring their own water bottle/drink. You'll save on drinks, cups and we're all so used to carrying a water bottle with us these days that no one will bat an eyelid when you ask.

In fact they'll probably steal this genius idea for their own kid's party, you'll see!

You don't necessarily need to hire an expensive party entertainer for your child's birthday bash, as good old party games can be just as fun.

And if you need some ideas, we've got 33 great ones here.