How to Politely Ask Someone Not to Bring Siblings to a Party

Many people drop off siblings at birthday parties, even if they are not invited.

When planning children's birthday parties, many parents assume that siblings who are close in age are invited along with your guest, even if they haven't received an invitation. While accommodating everyone is wonderful, sometimes it cannot be done, especially if the party is taking place somewhere there is limited space available. Instead of dealing with the problem as it arises, you can politely specify at the time of the invitation that siblings are not allowed to join the party, making things easier and clear for everyone.

Instructions

1. Plan the guest list with your child. While doing so, see if there are any siblings you may have space for or be able to accommodate. These siblings may be people your child isn't necessarily friends with, but that the family is close to.

2. Make a note on the invitation that space is limited and that siblings of the invited cannot partake in the activity. Although this may seem harsh, it helps avoid questions and protests later on. It is more polite to be firm at the beginning instead of arguing later.

3. Talk to people one on one who may take issue with your no-sibling rule. Explain politely that you cannot be expected to watch children that are not invited. In addition, having siblings of very different ages can cause issues within the birthday party, such as teasing or bullying, and that you'd like to avoid this.

4. Suggest alternate activities in the area if the parents must stick around with uninvited siblings. Look into restaurants, movie theaters and other kid-friendly activities that parents can take uninvited siblings to during the birthday party. Parents may appreciate these lists and enjoy some alone time with their child.

References

• Scholastic; Birthday Party Etiquette FAQ; 2011