Tell me about your funny/horror/best child parties

[cjt110]

It's my son's birthday on Sunday and we are having a party for him on the Saturday. Local playgym (open to the public during the party hours). Kids turn up, play, go into a private side room, have a party buffet and sing happy birthday then play again.

I've been to a few since he started school last Sept. Most have been fine.

I attended one where the parent had not RSVP'd to the hosting parent. Arrived with both children in tow and said "Ok, see you later" and left. Children were 4/5. Never seen said parent before, no emergency contact details left. WE were a bit and at this.

When DS was smaller, he would get upset choosing a gift for his friends and would be bereft that it wasn't his party or gift. He is now counting down the days each morning when he wakes!

I'm full of what ifs....

What if someone gets hurt... or has a scuffle...
What if someone tries to leave a child at party...
What if someone brings (uninvited) siblings...

Kids get hurt and have scuffles - that won't be the end of the world. If a parent tries to drop and run, you just say politely and firmly that every child needs to have an adult with them.

Uninvited siblings are tricky as you'll be in two different spaces - if you don't want additional kids coming through expecting food / a party bag then you could mention kindly to the parent that you'll keep an eye on their invited child while they stay in the main area with the uninvited one.

How has payment worked? Is there a risk you'll end up being charged for uninvited siblings if the parents arrive and sign them in as being part of the party? Could you give the venue a named guest list to prevent that?

We have paid for 10 children and I think it's then pay per child above that. Good suggestion of a named guest list.

I've made up plenty of party bags and am happy for additional siblings to have one and even to come but I am not paying for uninvited guests.