How to Plan a Child's Birthday Party at McDonald's

McDonald's birthdays are great because you can entertain your children's friends for just a few dollars per child, and you won't need to prepare your house or worry about cleaning it after the party. In addition, you will have the extra help of the McDonald's staff to help you with the party.

Things You'll Need

• Notebook for planning
• Invitations

Instructions

1. Decide which McDonald's location would be best for your party. Choose the area in your town that you consider the safest and cleanest so other parents will feel good about the kids going. You will also want to pick the McDonald's with the best play area. Drive to a few McDonald's in your area and go inside to check it out. Ask each location's staff about birthday parties to see if what they offer differs.

2. Once you settle on a McDonald's location, you need to make an appointment with the manager to set the date. Typically, a McDonald's birthday package includes a dedicated hostess, kids meals with drinks, a birthday cake, a gift for the child, party supplies, goodie bags and ice cream. Get a clear idea of what will be provided for your money and find out if you need to bring anything, including decorations.

3. Send store-bought invitations to your child's friends with the date, place and time of the party. Make sure that you write that it is a McDonald's party in big, bold letters. Also be clear about which location to avoid any confusion. Ask for RSVPs and give an RSVP date so you can make final arrangements with the store.

4. On the day of the party, have one parent arrive 15 minutes early to make sure everything is in place. It is important that the party starts on time so that any later parties aren't delayed. Be prompt and make sure your guests are on time too.

5. Relax and let the staff direct the party.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't attempt to take over the entire play area, as other kids will still be allowed in.

• Try to get some parents to stick around and help with the behavior of the children.

• Emphasize being on time to your guests. This is of utmost importance. Having several people show up late will ruin the flow of the party.

References

• McDonald's Birthday Parties

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish