Ever feel like you're out of
loop when it comes to unspoken rules of kids party etiquette? Experienced Moms and Dads know do's and don'ts of both hosting and attending kids parties. Here are some pearls of wisdom from these parent experts to those just starting out on party circuit... INVITATIONS The rule of thumb passed down by experienced Moms and Dads is to invite same number of party guests as your child's age. Resist temptation to invite every child in your child's classroom. Be discrete and avoid hurt feelings by mailing invitations home instead of passing them out in school. A manageable party is a more enjoyable one both for party attendants and for you!
PARTY TIME AND DURATION An hour is sufficient for toddlers and pre-schoolers when naptimes are still an issue. Plan your party when birthday child will be freshest and best able to handle all excitement, perhaps a morning brunch is best. For older school age children, a two to three hour party at any time of day is a safe bet; evening parties and sleep-overs are popular options for pre-teens.
RSVPs Always include an RSVP date and phone number on your party invitations. In event of a guest failing to RSVP, a cordial call on or after your RSVP date is perfectly acceptable. Sometimes mail is delayed and other mishaps occur, and you need to be sure that invitation was received. In addition, knowing exact guest count is necessary for planning purposes. GIFT GAFFES Children may sometimes express their true, and not necessarily polite, feelings about a gift they have received. In advance of party, explain to your child that it's necessary to thank all gift-givers with equal enthusiasm, no matter what gift. Impress upon your him or her that each guest feels their gift is special, and that it's thought behind it that counts.
If you plan to open gifts at party, make it early before kids are tired, cranky and hyped with sugar. Of course, this issue can be avoided entirely by opening gifts after guests have departed, a time-saving practice which prevents embarrassment of party child making ungrateful comments.
COMPETITIVE GAMES There's nothing wrong with good old-fashioned competition; it gets adrenalin going and cranks up excitement. Just make sure that elements of each game are manageable for age group you are inviting. A trial run with party child prior to party will likely head off any problems.
In addition, small gifts such as a lollipop or small trinket given to every player for completing game is preferable to awarding one large prize to winner only. Planning a craft activity or end-of-party reading time will involve all guests, even quieter ones.
SIBLINGS SHOWING UP UNINVITED Be very clear on your party invitation by using name of guest invited. Some people will ignore obvious and do what's convenient for them anyway, so have a few extra goodie bags on hand for siblings who just show up.
BACK-UP PLANS If you're having an outdoor party, it's good common sense to have a rainy day alternative. Confirm your entertainer one week before party time, but prepare a handful of games you can orchestrate on your own, if necessary. If a guest or two are late for festivities, don't delay your schedule but keep on as planned. Although no-shows, delays, and inclement weather are party bummers, you can still pull it off like professional with a little advance preparation. PARTY CHILD MISBEHAVING Here's where some advance coaching is in order. Emphasize important role your child has as party host or hostess to make guests feel comfortable. Discuss responsibilities s/he will have such as greeting guests, showing them where to sit at party table, and handing out party favors. Stress that through helping others enjoy day, your child will likely have a better time too. A gentle reminder during party should be all that's needed once you've laid down ground rules. GUESTS MISBEHAVING The party excitement, coupled with sugar intake, can lead to tantrums, tears, and other misbehavior. Step back a moment and try to handle these problems with patience and diplomacy. A little attention and redirection is sometimes all that's needed to remedy situation. Give child a special job to do or make them an honorary party helper. If behavior escalates, don't be afraid to separate child to a quiet room. Explain that bad behavior will not be tolerated and that parents will be called to take him or her home if it continues.
