Some schools prefer that you invite your childs entire class to celebrate their birthday. Find out about the policy at your childs school.

Allow your child to participate in composing the guest list. After all, this is their party. Help them through the decision process and make sure they do not exclude anyone whose feelings would be hurt. Make a list of those invited with three columns labeled "Yes" "No" and "Thank you." This way you and your child can keep track of who is coming and whether or not you've sent them a thank you note.

Include directions to your party location as well as a drop off and pick up time. You are more likely to have "stragglers" if parents are unsure as to the time the party will be ending or don't know how to get there.

You will have a more accurate estimate of prospective attendees if you include an RSVP date and a number where you can be reached. You may want to insert an RSVP postcard (postage included) inside the invitation. Your preparations for the fun will be more rewarding if you are expecting the correct number of mouths.

Send your invitations out three weeks before the party date. Make sure the postage is appropriate. It's hard to have a party without the party goers!