Need advice about kids birthday parties

[RaRaLion]

Hi All,

We are Muslims, my son has started to go to preschool nursery recently and he has been invited to one of his friend's birthday party. My son only eats halal and if it is not available, we go for vegetarian option. We want our son to have a good social experience and don't want to exclude him from the rest of his class.

Would it be unreasonable to ask the other parent if halal/vegetarian would be an option for the birthday party.

Hmmm I was going to suggest that you say nothing if you will be staying there with him - party food generally consists of a buffet selection including sandwiches that will be veggie. However, if I was the host mum I'd feel bad if by chance hadn't provided anything suitable, so maybe just include a casual sentence something g like, "xxx would love to come. Just wanted to mention that he only eats Halal/veggie - happy to send him with a packed tea if its easier".

When DS had his 5th birthday party, I put on the invites please advise any dietary requirements as I knew a few DC's would probably be halal as we live in a very diverse area.

I ended up making sure all the food was veggie anyway.

When your son gets invited I would just mention to he parents that he can only eat halal/veggie and maybe give some ideas in case they look blank.

Its ok to ask for veggie food. If you want halal food I guess you could offer some simple suggestions. Although it might be polite to offer to take some yourself.

Very helpful and reassuring responses so far :).

Bearwantsmore thanks for putting it so gently and diplomatically. I wish I could be so articulate too :)

Knittingnovice It is a very good idea to make all the food veggie. We will keep this in mind while arranging our son's birthday party.

Thanks BrianTheMole that's a very good suggestion also. We would be happy with vegetarian option though as this is what he is offered at the school.