Hosting a birthday party is an exciting and unforgettable moment in a child’s life. As a parent, it’s important to lay down a few basic guidelines in advance to ensure that the event goes smoothly for both the birthday child and guests.
1. A few days before the party, discuss the schedule of events on party day with your child so there’s no confusion.
2.
Walk through how he or she should greet guests—go through the exercise of a proper greeting by ringing your own doorbell and pretending to be a visitor. If your kids practice, they’ll feel more comfortable welcoming guests on the big day.
3. No matter what kind of activities you are having at your party, make sure that everyone is included. Pick activities that will keep everyone involved and entertained, and remind your child how hurt they would feel if they were not included in something.
4. Practice receiving gifts. We all get presents that we don’t love, but it’s important to be polite so that we don’t hurt other people’s feelings, especially children. Practice opening gifts with your child so that they know what to do and say if this happens to them.
5. Sending thank-you notes is an important acknowledgment of your guests’ generosity. Encourage your child to send thoughtful notes to all guests, and to mail them promptly after the party.
Faye Rogaski is the founder of socialsklz:-) tools to thrive in the modern world, life skills classes for children, tweens and teens in New York City and Westchester.
