Slither Hither


My daughter's sixth birthday is on May 3rd. As you may recall, she has been talking about this birthday since . . . well, May 4th. She gets a party every other year, so she knows she is due for a festive bash this year. While she would be delighted to go to Chuck E Cheese or that sort of kid-magnet joint, I'd really rather not. I can't help but want her birthday to be something special - not just a party in a sea of other parties. A is going to her second bowling party in a row this weekend.  Those are totally fine, but I want to try something different.

I think I may have a plan.  I have a friend who does reptile rescue.  I have a daughter who loves reptiles. Twice this year, she has brought home this book on library day at school (and lingers over the image of a snake with a live frog dangling from its mouth):


My friend also does kid-related gatherings. She brings a few animals, does a craft with the kids, brings coloring books with information about reptiles, takes photos of the kids with the beasts, etc. Educational and fun, right?  I am thinking of renting a conference room somewhere (assuming I can find one that allows live animals) and having this reptile-themed party.  My only hesitation is this: do you think some parents would have heart palpitations over having their kid at an event like this? Needless to say, the kids don't have to interact with the snakes and whatnot if they don't want to.  And obviously my friend would only bring non-venomous, reliable-type creatures along.

I was thinking that I would include a note on the invitations to say "live reptiles will be present" or something. I know some kids may choose to come and then not interact with the animals (which is fine - we'll have other activities and of course cake). I guess I'm more worried about parents thinking the whole thing is a bad idea.  What say ye, parent-type readers?

Comments

aliciajill said…
I would be totally cool with my kiddos attending such a party. I think its an awesome, out of the box idea and I would appreciate doing something different. I guess a heads up might be nice, but I don't see the big deal. I suppose it depends on the vibe you get from the parents involved. I'd make the note fun: "hey kids! ever wonder what a snake feels like? or what color a frog's tongue is? come learn about and meet some fun animals at A's party!"
January 19, 2011 at 6:17 PM
The Lovely One said…
I think it's a fun and original idea. I would have no problem if Bug or BK got invited to a party like this!
January 19, 2011 at 8:44 PM
Unknown said…
OK, personally I'm terrified of all things slithery but I LOVE the idea of something out of the box like this. And I think that a simple mention of live animal activities would be all that's needed. So go for it. I'm looking for something different this year. We've done the "picnic at the park" for 3 years running.
January 19, 2011 at 8:48 PM
Kalinda said…
I think it is a fabulous idea. We have a place in town that has birthday party packages along these same lines and I've toyed with the idea of having A's party there. I love that your girly girl who loves twirly dresses also has a thing for snakes!!
January 19, 2011 at 9:09 PM
Angela Z said…
The Kress library in DePere has a meeting room downstairs that costs $40 to rent. It has a little kitchenette off to the side and they hold a reptile program there twice a year so they are not opposed to having slithering things out and about! If you are interested, the phone # is 448-4407 and Dianne does the bookings. I'm not trying to sell it or anything, I just work there and think it would fit your needs if you want options :) PS I love the idea...we are headed to Chuck E Cheese for a party soon and I want to poke my eye out with a fork just thinking about it....
January 19, 2011 at 11:16 PM
Anonymous said…
My SIL did a reptile party last year for my neice and nephew. Everyone loved it but me since I am scared to death of spiders. I have pictures posted on my FB page you should check them out. Kids absolutely loved it and so did most parents. It was fun for all I say do it.

Rayna Kandravi
January 20, 2011 at 5:05 AM
Steph K said…
I think it would be awesome! At that age, more parents would be wary than kids.
January 20, 2011 at 7:42 AM
Unknown said…
That would be an awesome party! Seriously. You get major kudos for thinking ahead 5 months!
January 20, 2011 at 8:24 AM
Khudson33 said…
Great idea- our children's museum has a reptile area, we can't keep the kids away when we go they are fascinated! Education is a good thing, it alleviates fear :) Have a fun party -
January 20, 2011 at 9:21 AM
Jen said…
We have groups around here that will come to your house for reptile shows etc. That's a great idea and I would not be squeamish at all about it. We love snakes and creepy-crawlies here! Sounds like a great idea!
January 20, 2011 at 10:05 AM
Sam said…
I'm a parent, hate reptiles, and think it's a fabulous idea.
January 20, 2011 at 3:29 PM
Susie said…
I'd totally be there. Heck, if you wanna buy me a flight, I'll come! :) You are one cool mamasita!
January 20, 2011 at 8:19 PM
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