Friday, 19 May 2017

Birthday Parties and Inclusivity

Hans will be 9 on Monday. The last time I threw a party for him was 3 years ago. I felt like I should make the effort this year as the kid went through a bit of a rough time. It turns out Hans wants exactly the same birthday party from 3 years ago - watch a movie with his friends! The kid is definitely consistent and predictable.

3 years ago, we ended up with about 25 kids. The invitation went out to every child in kindergarten. There is an unwritten rule about it - don't break little hearts! We also invited the siblings. It got crazy expensive and just crazy.

This time around, I asked him to pick only 3 or 4 friends. He did and then, we added a couple more. It turns out there are 9 boys in Hans' class including him. We found out he included 5 and left out 3. One of them is Chucky/Junior. I wondered if Hans wanted to invite those 3 boys?! My friend Y wondered why I would ask my child to invite a boy who tormented him for most of his school life?! And continues to do so on occasion!! I responded that I do not want that kid to be the only kid not included.

Hans was very gracious and agreed to be inclusive. Then we kept adding kids as we didn't want to hurt grownup feelings now! Soon, we had close to 20 kids. My friend Y got really sarcastic on me and suggested that I make a flyer and drop if off at every home in the neighbourhood so I include everyone! I could see her point, but then I wanted her to see mine too!

As of now, the birthday has become a long weekend celebration trying to accommodate everyone. Craigley is looking at me like I am a crazy woman. I know I am a crazy woman. However, if I am willing to take it on and see it through, wouldn't it be a wonderful learning experience for Hans?! What if Hans' kind gesture changes Junior in a positive way?! I can always hope for the best. And I am just glad that the only person who matters most this weekend is not looking at me like I am a crazy woman.

Will keep you posted folks. Wish me luck!
 

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