We are hosting a party for my son's sixth birthday next weekend. It's a smaller affair, because this year we are having a slumber party. We are good friends with all the families invited. I added a note to the invitation that said parents were welcome to stay for as long as they felt comfortable. It's the first slumber party for most of the kids. Two of the kids have moms who want to stay for a while. We are completely fine with that, no problems. Both of these moms need to bring siblings. Again, we are fine with that. The Dad's have odd schedules and they have no one to watch their other children. So I told the moms their kids could join us for dinner and a few games (my son is friendly with these "extra" kids, the kids will get along wonderfully). The theme of the party is the WIld Kratts ( a PBS show). I am making each child a creature power vest and they are getting a flash light in lieu of goody bags. They will be handed out as the kids come in to use during the party. Do I need to provide the "extra" kids with vests and flashlights? There will be three additional kids who will be there for a portion of the party. I'll need to get more fabric and do some more sewing. I do have enough flashlights for everyone to get one, including the "extra" kids. Not a huge ordeal, I just don't know what's expected.
Off to buy more fleece! I agree with you mamas. In a way, I extended the invitation to the kids and I don't want anyone feeling awkward or left out. It'll only cost me and additional $5 and about 30 minutes. I can handle that! Thanks for the advice mamas!
Hi SB-
I would be inclined to give out the flashlights...and do games using JUST those til the sibs/moms go home...then...after they leave...give the vests for the 'birthday crew'...
I think it is so very thoughtful of you to think of the sibs...but as a fellow seamstress...those projects can be pretty labor intense!!
Best Luck!!
michele/cat
Yes---it would be better to be prepared just in case. You don't want to hurt any little kiddos feelings. Have a great time!
M
If you have extra flashlights and have no use for them, then give them the extra lights, but I wouldn't make extra vests. Their mother's will have to explain.
My oldest is 5 and all of his friends have younger siblings, so I'm just in the habit of always including them in the count. Even if they don't participate in the party, I like to send the "goody bag" home for the younger sibling. Sometimes they see big brother or sister always getting treats at parties and from school, so it really means a lot to them to be included. Our preschool always included goody bags for the younger siblings. It was wonderful!
I would provide the same gifts to all the children becuase you did give permission for the parents to bring the siblings. It would be difficult to explain to the extra kids that they are only sorta invited.
Definitely hand out the flashlights. IF you have the time and money the vests would be cool BUT I wouldn't stress out about it....
I would, but I don't think you have to. I don't like siblings feeling left out.
Glad you decided to include the extras. Just had to say what a great theme! And fantastic party goodies. We love the Wild Kratts show. :-)
We had extras for siblings and I'm so glad we did! Like you, we were welcoming to parents who asked about brothers and sisters, so in our eyes the siblings were guests too!
Have a great party!
