Room Party Basics!

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The following article - thanks to:
Everything Elementary

Room Party Basics

• Know that every teacher has different expectations. Some teachers will give you a party plan, laying out all the details for you to execute. Others will await the party as anxiously as the children to see what fun you have prepared for them! ALWAYS check with the teacher FIRST.
• Fill out a Room Party Checklist for each party. You'll feel more organized and the party will be much more successful.
• If you are chairing the party, plan to arrive half an hour before the party is to commence. Unload all of your props and goodies as close to the classroom as possible without disrupting the class.
• Make arrangements with the teacher to have the classroom available for set-up 15 minutes before the party starts.
• Ask all party volunteers to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the party to set up, and finalize plans.
• Start and end the party on time.
• Don't assume that pre-school siblings will be welcomed. Check with the teacher first.
• Bring everything you will need for each game and craft. Don't assume that the teacher will have masking tape or a glue gun if you need those items.
• Bring along a large plastic trash bag, and some paper towels. The teacher will appreciate not having an overflowing trashcan, and the school custodian will adore you!
• When planning parties for younger children (under 10), or if you are working with a limited amount of time, we recommend you divide your activities into "stations". Recruit enough parents/helpers to work at each station, and divide the children into small groups—four to five in each group works best. Have the party guests spend no more than 10-15 minutes at a station, then blow a whistle, or ring a bell and have everyone rotate.
• Select a couple of games, a craft, and then read an age appropriate book to the group while the snack is being prepared and served. Always plan two or three extra games or an extra craft just in case you finish faster than anticipated. When awarding favors and prizes, make sure that the party ends with identical treasures in everyone's hands!
• Always plan to have extra snacks available so that the teacher, school principal, and parent helpers can enjoy them also.
• Always add a few decorations. Simple table decorations can make all the difference in the world in the fun quotient! Balloons, streamers, curling ribbon, and plastic tablecloths are inexpensive, but go a long way in making a room look festive.
• Don't forget the camera and film or video camera.
• Above all else, be flexible, and have fun! Our precious children and the important events we celebrate with them should be savored and treasured.

Also see:
Who Pays For What?
Room Moms Questions for the Teacher
ABC's for Room Moms
Room Party Check List
7 Ways to Say Thanks