How to Handle Problem Children at Parties

You might think that children are going to be easy to look after at a party. After all, they are excited to have fun games, activities, cake and snacks. There couldn't possibly be any reason for them to get upset or misbehave. Unfortunately, this is not always the way it happens. Therefore, follow these steps to handle problem children at parties.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Quiet activity to fill extra time

1. Understand why children sometimes misbehave at parties. At parties where one child is the center of attention, such as a birthday party, the guests will sometimes begin to feel left out. On the other hand, the guest of honor can become over stimulated.

2. Tell the child in a calm way that what he is doing is not acceptable, if he is engaging in behavior that could hurt other people, animals or things. If he seems unable to control himself, or just seems upset, continue to Step 3.

3. Re-direct the child's energy and attention. Engage her in another game or activity. On the other hand, if you are getting ready to set up a new game or serve refreshments, ask her to help you. This will make her feel special and included.

4. Assure a problem child that you want him to participate in activities and have a good time. Ask him if there is anything you can do to help him have a good time.

5. Let a problem child who is being too disruptive know that you will have to call her parents to come and get her if she can't control herself. Always speak in a calm and friendly way, while smiling so that you don't scare or intimidate her.

6. Have an extra quiet activity ready for the children in case their parents have not collected them when the party is over or all the planned activities are finished. Many children will start to become upset around the end of the party because they are tired. Some examples of extra activities are coloring, a movie or story time.