Weekday Birthday Party?
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Weekday Birthday Party?
Jan 2007
I am considering having a mid-week, after school (3 to 5-ish)
birthday party for my daughter. I would pick up a few kids from
her pre-school and keep them at home until the parents are ready
to pick them up at our house, or I would even drive them home.
Is it a bad idea, or not? Any advice will be really appreciated!
A Mom
I think it's a great idea. Much less stress than a weekend party. I went to
one that a
friend had for her daughter, and it was great. Plus, some parents may
appreciate the
ability to keep their weekend a little freer for family time. I know sometimes
I am
bummed about taking my kids to a party on a Saturday or Sunday, for that
reason. I
say go for it.
It's a great idea! I did it two years ago and started a trend
at our daughter's school. It's short, but sweet. I would have
the parents pick up their kids, though. It makes it easier on
you. You'll probably be tired after hosting a party to a group
of pre-schoolers. Have fun!
J
I think you should be directing this question to the parents
whose children you intend to invite. It really depends on how
well they know you. You may be the best driver and have a very
safe home but unless I personally know you, I would not have that
comfort level to let my kid leave with you. For example, I don't
know anything about the car seat you would seat my child in, I
don't know what adults will be at your house and if they are
trustworthy. Sounds paranoid, huh? But that's what it is to be a
mother, which you already know. However, if you guys are a
tight-knit group of parents this might not be an issue (but then
again, if you were that close, you would probably be asking them,
not posting this question to the board). Just don't take it
personally if some parents politely decline your offer.
Personally, I love going to birthday parties with my pre-schooler
and it's not as appealing an offer if I am unable to accompany
him due to it being a weekday. Then it becomes more of a
question of ''how can I make sure he will be safe'' and not about
just having fun.
anon
As a stay-at-home parent of a preschooler, I like the school-day
birthday parties. They save us from having to use a family
weekend day to go to a party. Late afternoon is great too, as
this is often a difficult time when kids are tired, so having
something to occupy them is wonderful.
That said, it might not be so great for you. The kids might be
tired, some of them might have after-school activities, etc.
Also, you should be careful if you're picking up just ''some'' of
the kids from the preschool--the ones who weren't selected for
the party might notice and be hurt.
Have fun and good luck
A party parent
Hi-
I just wanted to add that as a mom who works outside the home,
I find weekday parties really frustrating; they essentially
draw a line between the SAHM and the WOHMs and the only ones
who loose out are the kids.
My son has missed a few parties this year because they were
held at 4 and 5pm on a Wednesday. And as a preschooler he
doesn't grasp the concept that we can't go because I work and
Sally's mommy doesn't.
If you are inviting a bunch of kids from your childs class,
please leave some consideration for the working parents.
workin' fool
In the last issue there was a response from a working mom who
said her son had to miss weekday parties. I'm a working mom too,
and I wanted to point out that the original poster said she planned
to pick the kids up from school herself, and keep them till
the parents can pick them up, or even take them home after the
party herself. I think this is awesome! What a thoughtful
parent! I would love a party like this, and I know my kid would
have a great time.
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