So school’s been back in for a little while and with the new friends and faces come birthdays; that once a year celebration all children embrace.

My daughter (Jade) has been invited to 6 birthday already this year. She attended her first a few days ago, due to circumstances turned down 4, and sad to say we “no showed” one.

All her friends were traumatized by the rejection of their invitation. More to the contrary, when their kind offers were declined, they invited someone else. It’s amazing how children don’t take “no” the way that we adults do. The parent’s we “no showed” said we were missed. I meekly apologized and that was the end of that. No rescheduling or awkward glances, simple.

Kids keep inviting until they get their parent approved quota. They are selective with who they invite as they are out to have fun with their friends. Kids are great networkers, can’t come to the party, not a big deal. Best friends will always be there, you can count on that.

So what did I learn?

• The best invitation is a personalized card (birthday cards get noticed) and like the birthday card include an rsvp.
• The list of invitees is made prior to mail out, and then the list is whittled down to the best prospects.
• Agenda is attached with clearly defined times for the event (nothing worse than having a meeting that goes on and on and on)
• If you want a person there pick them up and show them a good time (some parents offered to pick Jade up and drop her off).

Next, my daughter reveals to me, hidden skills of a great sponsor.