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Who To Invite
The recommended number of guests to invite to a child's party used to be the child's age plus one. These days, however, it is not uncommon for many parents to include a whole class, or all of the children of their child’s gender, from a particular group. Just be sure not to pass out invitations at school if the whole class is not invited. It will likely take more time to send them via mail or e-mail, but it will spare the feelings of those not included. When determining which route to take with your guest list it is helpful to consider the following factors:
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What type of budget have you designated for this celebration?
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How many children will the party space accommodate for your planned activities?
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What kind of party would your child most enjoy? Shy or quiet children might be intimidated by too many people.
Invitations
Invitations for your child's party should be sent out three to four weeks before the party date. With children’s parties especially, there are several details that should be addressed:
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What are you celebrating?
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What date and time will your party take place?
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When will the party be over?
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Where will you be hosting the event?
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Are parents required, welcome, or not necessary?
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Are siblings welcome?
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What is your requested RSVP date and contact information?
***It is also not a bad idea to note what types of food you’ll be serving. This gives parents an opportunity to alert you if a child has a serious food allergy.***
Length Of The Party
The time frame for the party depends on the location, activities, and the age of the child. The following is a general guide that should be helpful:
3-5 years - 2 hours
6-8 years - 2.5 hours
8-10 years - 3 hours
Help
It is a great idea to ask a friend or two for their assistance on your child's big day, or to accept any help that is offered. Obviously you should confirm that they are available on your desired date before sending out invitations. You should also have a clear idea what tasks you want them to perform before party time. This will also help decide how much help you will need. After the party, it is a nice idea to give your helpers a small gift of thanks. You should also be prepared to reciprocate when their child's birthday rolls around.
Food and Drink
It is certain that the kids will only be concerned with the cake, but depending on your party time, you might also want to add a meal or snack. It is always best to keep things simple as many young kids have discriminating tastes. Even though it is a party, many parents are striving to limit their children's sugar intake. If you are offering soda, you might also want to have include a reduced sugar juice or alternative beverage. Consider fruits and whole grains for meals and snacks when possible.
RSVP
A prompt response to an invitation is always preferred, but with parents juggling so many responsibilities, don't hold your breath for all of them. If you are still waiting for responses as the party approaches, it is perfectly acceptable to give a friendly follow up call or e-mail.
Parties Without Parents
If parents will not be attending your function, be sure to have their cell phone or contact number in case of emergency. It is also a good idea for them to know how to contact you. If you can, designate a helper to be your “phone monitor” to be sure you don’t miss any important calls while performing host or hostess duties
Presents - To Open Or Not To Open
This seems to be a common question with hosting parents and there is no right or wrong answer. If the party is relatively small, and your child can open all of their presents without losing the attention of the guests, go for it. Guests will enjoy seeing the birthday child open and react to the gift they brought. However, if opening gifts would cause a major disruption in the flow of the party, you should probably opt to open them later. Either way, be sure to note what each guest brought so you aren't playing a guessing game when it comes time to write thank you notes. If you do opt to open gifts during the party, be sure that the birthday boy or girl thanks each guest for their gift at the party as well.
Hello and Good Bye
Be sure to greet each guest upon arrival. If your guests are not familiar with each other, be sure that everyone is introduced. With children it is especially important to be sure that all guests are included in games and activities. When the party is over thank each guest for coming, and again for their gift (if it was opened at the party).
Thank You Notes
The popularity of the Thank You Note seems to be re-emerging and it is a welcome and positive trend, especially if gifts were not opened at the birthday party. They don't have to be too lengthy, just a sincere thanks for sharing the special day and for the gift which you should mention specifically. Notes should be sent out within a month of the party.
Guest Tips
RSVP as promptly as possible and offer any help if you are available.
Arrive on time, more than 15 minutes late deserves a call.
If you are not attending the party with your child, be sure to discuss proper behavior ahead of time. They should be respectful of their environment and observe the rules of the hosts.
Pick up your children and depart on time. Don't linger when your hosts are trying to wrap things up.
Thank your hosts (and be sure your child thanks them as well) upon departure.
If you can't make the party, a gift is probably not expected, but be sure to say thank you for the invitation.
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