Today, I hosted 2 birthday parties at work. They both had about the same number of people, with an equal ratio of adults and children, and the birthday kids were both 5 years old. The only real difference was that one party was for a boy and one was for a girl.
We went and greeted the first party and brought them to the party room. Immediately all of the adults sat against the wall and acted like their children didn't exist. They wouldn't be a part of the activities, but were frustrated us when we didn't do the activities they wanted us to (even though they gave us zero direction on what they wanted). Then, while paying for their party, they tried to get a discount because they weren't happy with all we did for them.
When it was time to greet the second party, I was worried it was going to be a similar experience to what happened during the first party. Boy was I wrong. This family was amazing. They all took care of their children, and participated in the activities. They were so excited to see all of the activities we had planned and wanted to help in any way they could. If they wanted to do a certain activity, they told us and if possible we did it. At the end of the party, while walking up to the front desk, they thanked us the entire time. It was a complete turn around from the first party, and we all had so much fun.
Parents, play with your kids. Strangers can only do so much. I realize I am not a parent, but coming from someone who works with kids every day, the kids (and parents) always have a better experience when everyone is involved.
Alright, rant over. Now I am just going to forget everything that happened at the first birthday party, and remember how much fun the second one was. Also, I still have the greatest job ever.
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