Early in my career I had a cops and robbers routine that was a very popular magic trick. The birthday child got dressed up as a funny burglar with a funny mask and a torch. The birthday child's mission was to get back the lollies stolen by a nasty character. It was very positive as it was a bit of a Robin Hood type role.

At this particular party everything was going swimmingly well right up until the special moment for the birthday party boy. He flat out refused to wear the mask and play the role of the robber. He threw the mask down followed by the torch. The only way to placate him was to let him be the police type character. This in turn caused a problem as it was the the robber who would eventually save the day and get the special gifts from the good citizens of the city (the other children).

Afterwards I asked the Mum what the deal was? His father was a Police Inspector and at 5 years old he had already set his sights on being the same. Being the villian was against everything this little guy believed in. It taught me a thing or two which is why when parents now ring to book some birthday party entertainment I often spend a few minutes just chatting and getting a bit of background.