NO parent wants their child to be left out when it comes to birthday parties.
But one mother was left in a sticky situation after her child was charged £20 to attend her friend’s birthday party.
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She took to Facebook to share her confusion after receiving an invitation for her daughter to go to a local trampoline park, along with a request for a financial contribution.
But that wasn’t the worst part for the mother.
As she read further, she saw that there was also a long wish list.
After the mother of two expressed her displeasure on social media, a debate arose and the story went viral.
READ MORE ABOUT CHILDREN’S PARTIES
She wanted to ask other parents what proper etiquette is when hosting parties, and whether she was wrong in thinking the request was unreasonable.
The mother said she agreed to pay the fee because she understood that people are struggling financially due to the high cost of living.
She also didn’t want her child to miss the event.
However, she noted that the wishlist was also pricey, with items costing between £35 and £65.
In addition, the mother noted that this parent had never given her children presents for their birthday parties.
The mother believes that if parents cannot afford to throw a party, they should cut the party short or opt for a cheaper option.
She also believes that parents should budget accordingly and not put pressure on other parents.
Many other parents were quick to respond to the comments to share their thoughts.
Someone said, “I get it if they’re going to a paid activity, but a ‘wish list’ – rude. You have to teach kids to be grateful for the gifts they get.”
Another person wrote on Facebook: “I wouldn’t be outraged at all. I would just laugh and say ‘I won’t be there.'”
Dinner Party Etiquette and Guests
Whether it’s the first time you’re inviting friends to your new home, or you regularly host dinner guests…
Rebecca Miller, Deputy Editor of Fabulous, has compiled a list of dinner party do’s and don’ts and guest etiquette. And sending the check at the end of the night is not one of them!
Arrive on time – A 10 minute wait is allowed, but if you do not inform the host or hostess, it is downright rude.
Don’t come empty-handed – unless you are just stopping by for a quick cup of coffee, always bring a small token of appreciation for the host and his/her efforts. Flowers, a bottle of wine, a candle or contribute to the dinner by making a dessert.
Don’t start eating until everyone is seated – what may seem like an obvious rule, is one that many forget. Cooking a meal for a group of people takes a lot of effort, so wait for the host to park, thank him/her and wait for instructions.
Don’t do the dishes, clear the table – Everyone has their own way of cleaning and tidying up. If you go into the kitchen and start scrubbing, it can be seen as an insult. So help clear the table and ask if there is anything else you can do – maybe refill everyone’s glass?
Put your phone away – few things can make someone feel less seen or important than coming second to a cell phone. Keep it in your pocket and check anything urgent during toilet breaks.
A third said: “Simple solution… don’t go to a party. The parent who is throwing the party shouldn’t be throwing one if they can’t afford it. The right… ya!”
“Tasteless,” said someone else.
A fourth added: “If you ask your parents to contribute, the best thing you can say is no gift.”
“The only thing the parents need to bring are presents,” shared another.
Someone else concluded: “I like to think I’ve taught my kids how to have fun without spending money on everything and without making fun of the people who are invited but can’t afford to go.”
