Elliott has been invited to his first birthday party. One of his classmates is celebrating their birthday tomorrow and Elliott will be in attendance.
This is a milestone in his life and I’m thrilled to death that he gets to have this experience.
Is it inappropriate for one of us to stay with him? I mean, who drops their child off at a strangers house and leaves? We don’t known these people yet and so that makes them strangers, right?
What would you do?
I had a party at a bowling alley for my PDD son and his equally messed up friends from his special school. Went great and parents stayed. We had a great time getting to know them and the other children and the parents were all present in case anyone had a "problem" arise. I would call the parent and tell them that E is thrilled to go, but that he has some special needs (they prob already know this) and do they mind if you or Lizze stays just in case the excitement is too much for him? The answer is likely to be not a prob, come on down.
@MariaHall it shouldn't be a problem. They are familiar because it's a school for ASD kids. 🙂
@lostandtired @MariaHall Then you should be jumping for joy and getting the camera ready!!!!! He is gonna have lots of smiles!
Prepare him for it to reduce anxieties if that's something he needs. Also, you should have an exit strategy prepared for if he's overstimulated or too anxious.
@anansison thanks. That's a really good idea. That way if he needs to leave, he won't be embarrassed.
As a father with an almost seven-year old with Autism, I've attended every birthday party he's been invited to. I don't hover over him, but I would hate to have something set my son off and ruin the party for his buddy.
I don't have to spend time worrying that he's OK, and it gives me a great chance to meet his pals and their parents.
@Pickering ASD Dad that's exactly how I am. I watch from a distance but I'm close if he needs me. Well said.
I'd think it would be more inappropriate to be perfectly comfortable dropping your child off at a strangers house…. I'd stay for sure!
@Amy that's what I think. However, we were at a party with Gavin and these parents basically just slowed the car down and let the kids out before leaving. I dot know how you do that.
I would say that it is fine, perfectly fine for you to stay with him at the party.
@Chloe123 thanks Chloe. I enjoyed our chat last night. Thanks again for all the advice and insight. 🙂
Lizze and I really appreciate it.
yes stay with him,. heck it's a kids party I bet the parents of the party kid could use an extra set of hands and eyes. If you don't watch out kids on a birthday cake high have been known to eat the birthday clown.
@wyrdpookaone that's funny. 🙂
My husband and I never left our daughter with people we didn't know very very well. I think with little kids the hosts probably expect that most of the parents will stay. I know we always did, and when we went, we just stood out of the way and chatted with the other parents who were there as well.
@heatherruark that sounds like a plan. Thanks for sharing. 🙂