Birthday Party Etiquette for Children
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It's never too early to teach your child good manners and birthday parties make ideal etiquette classrooms.
Guest Lists - You don't have to feel obligated to invite all of the children in your child's classroom. Involve your child in the planning... simply ask them whom they would like to invite to their party. You should, however be considerate of others' feelings. Avoid handing out invitations at school. It's better to send invitations in the mail or make a few phone calls. Discourage your child from talking about the party at school.
RSVP - It is okay to call parents if they don't respond to your invitation. It will give you a chance to confirm the date and time, as well as any food allergies their child may have.
Gracious Host - A few weeks before the party, teach your child how to be a gracious host by emphasizing the importance of their guests' enjoyment. Put them in charge of greeting their guests at the door and handing out favors as they depart. Talk to them about sharing their toys and give them the chance to put away any special toys they simply can't share.
Extra Guests - Occasionally parents will bring along a sibling or extra child who hasn't been invited. It's nice to have an extra treat or balloon on hand for the brother or sister who comes to pick up a party guest.
To Open Gifts or Not to Open Gift - For children under the age of five it's a good idea not to open gifts. When young children open gifts, they can unleash a flood of bad feelings. They may be reluctant to share their gifts or announce that they dislike (or already have) what's in the box.
However, if you choose to open gifts, be sure to talk to your child beforehand what gifts represent - "the good wishes of the giver." Teach your child to say an enthusiastic "thank you" after opening every gift.
Thank You Notes - This is always big on my list when I teach my etiquette courses. When a child writes a thank-you note, it teaches them to be considerate to others, shows gratitude, and improves their writing skills. These notes need not be long and children that are pre-literate can sign their autograph or draw a picture as a way of sending thanks.
Birthday parties can be a very exciting time in a child's life and give them happy memories for many years to come!
We are enrolling now for our Summer Etiquette Camp for
ages 6 - 12 for June and July!
Please visit our website to register www.itsallaboutetiquette.com
or call 480 510 6346.
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