| Birthday party etiquette -- do parents of 6-year-old guests have to stay at party?
My son (age 5) was invited to his friend's birthday party (age 6). When I RSVPed to the friend's mother by email, I asked her if this was a drop-off-your-kids party, or if parents should stay (I ask so I know what to expect).
I expected that she would say "drop-off", since the kids are 5- and 6-years-old and the party is at their house. But here is her response:
"I would like for you to stay. I'm one parent, and our house is two stories. Additional parents to help keep track of the kids are welcomed."
I am annoyed that she seems to be taking my asking as volunteering to stay -- and also letting other parents off the hook ("Additional parents to help keep track of the kids are welcomed."). I never volunteered to stay, and I could very much use the time at home b/c we are moving soon, and are preparing our house to go on the market within the next week.
Isn't it her responsibility to only invite a number of kids she can handle alone?
How do I respond?
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