Planning a party - need a bit of advice?

[KatyMac]

OK I'm a childminder & it's my 40th so I thought I'd have a party in the afternoon for all my mindees (& families) and friends with young children. From 4-6 with party food & games.

Then at 7 I would like a band (but might end up with a disco as it's short notice) we are having baked potatoes with chilli/tuna/cheese & bread & salads, with fruit & cheese for afters.

Is there a polite way to say

bring your children to the children's party - but at 7 I want grown-ups only

Or am I being a cow?

Sounds fair enough. Just put "Children's tea party 4-6, Grown ups from 7" or something like that. I don't think it's unreasonable - rather I think it's very nice that you can be bothered to host a kids' party in the afternoon rather than spending the afternoon preparing for your evening do. I'd be treating myself to a pedicure...

Really - I'm not being a cow?

Good I really want a gown up party

Go for it. No one will think badly of you. Everyone love their kids but it still doesn't mean it's not healthy and fun to have a few hours off from time to time.

Enjoy your party!

I think being up front is different to being a cow.
I like the wording Anonymama has used

Thanks - it's really the children I work with I don't want later tbh - I can't stop myself being responsible for their behaviour

agree with anonymama - except would perhaps say "Children's tea party 4-6, Grown ups only from 7" so there's no confusion. The only thing I am thinking is that 7 might be a bit early for people who have to get their children home, ready for bed, then out again if you are finishing the children's party at 6? I agree it's lovely of you to include the children at all - tho I'd seriously consider doing the children's party the following afternoon, so you can thoroughly pamper yourself and be relaxed for you grown-ups do. What ever you do, have fun!

I went with

Children?s Party from 4pm ?til 6pm ? Party food
Adult?s Party from 7pm ? Buffet

Could everyone respect that the evening party is for adults and children over 7 only ? Katymac would like to spend time with her adult friends and family.