Child Birthday Party Guests

Things to Consider when Inviting Guests

Not everyone will be able to attend. So, do not feel guilty! It is your child’s celebration. Your child will be happy knowing you are there along with other family/friends. Generally close family and friends try to attend, however age differences and activities may negatively affect attendance. Neighbors, old friends, current friends, religious school friends, general school friends, as well as special friends from sports and social clubs can all be seen as possible guests to be invited.

I have found the following to hold true based on my parties and those of family and friends, 1/3 to 2/3 of all children invited can attend. So, do invite more than you want to be present or your child may have a lonely party. Do not concern yourself about changing the date to suit a particular friend. After all, children have been known not to show due to an illness or a last minute accident. Tell your child this from the beginning so he/she will be accepting of those who are attending.

Only send birthday iinvitations to children who you know their complete mailing address and phone number, unless they are neighbors living close by on your street. This allows you to follow-up with people whom you do not receive an RSVP. Sometimes invitations become lost in the mail or become misplaced. It is easy to knock on a neighbor’s door for a verbal RSVP or to make a phone call to verify the invitation was received. You never know if an invitation has been received if you do not call. Never assume the worst or best. If you do not receive an RSVP by a week before the party, then call to get an accurate party attendance number.