Select Region
Let's Get Social!


Handling Prickly Party Situations

Handling Prickly Party Situations


Faye de Muyshondt, founder of socialsklz:-), a Manhattan etiquette school for kids, shares guidelines for how to invite guests to a birthday party, writing thank you notes, and handling food allergies.

We asked Faye de Muyshondt, founder of socialsklz:-), our three burning questions on prickly party situations.

 

Must the entire class really be invited?

In a word, no. It’s okay for a child to be selective about who they’re inviting and who they’re not. Now, I wouldn’t suggest inviting the entire class less one child, but if they only want to invite, say, half the class, that’s just fine. What’s important is that invitations are not handed out at school, so that nobody feels left out. Also, remind your child not to talk about the party at school, and make sure she understands why.

RELATED: Birthday Party Resources in Your Area



 

If we open gifts during the party, and my child says “Thanks!” as he goes along, do I still need to send a written thank you?

First of all, the party is about the person being celebrated, so let your child decide whether he wants to open them at the party or later. And, sorry, but even if he does choose the former, written notes are still required.  It’s a worthwhile exercise for all children.

  

So many kids have food allergies. I’m getting a little stressed worrying about pleasing everyone. What do I do?

Right on the invitation, note specifically everything you will be serving, then add, “If your child has an allergy to the above, please send along a brown-bag lunch or dessert.” If the invites have gone out already, email the parents.

RELATED: Modern Rules for RSVPing

 

More Articles:

At What Age Can Children Legally Sit in the Front Seat?

Before you let your child sit in the front seat of your car after calling "Shotgun," make sure you know how old your child should be before they becom...


Latest News:

Live Coronavirus Updates for Parents and Kids in the New York Metro Area

UPDATED DAILY: Live updates on coronavirus developments in the New York metro area, as well as tips for discussing the pandemic with your children, ke...


Family Activities:



Have a Laugh:

Best Memes of the Week for Parents

Here are the funniest parenting memes from Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit this week.
Christina Vercelletto

Author:

 Christina Vercelletto is a former editor at NYMetroParents, ParentingScholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day. She lives on Long Island with her kids, a chiweenie, Pickles, and a 20-pound calico, Chub-Chub.

See More

Featured Listings:

Long Island STEM Prep LLC

Long Island STEM Prep LLC

LI STEM Prep offers a variety of services, but specializes in personalized tutoring sessions tailored to the skills students need to overcome a challe...

Avenue Orthodontics

Avenue Orthodontics

Whitestone, NY At Avenue Orthodontics we believe that a healthy, confident smile makes a huge difference in life. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing our patien...

Pediatric Immediate Care

Pediatric Immediate Care

Brooklyn, Pediatric Immediate Care is a Team of Hearts where kids come first. Our state-of-the-art medical office allows us to deliver test results during visit...