Events outside the dayhome

[Momof4]

One of my daycare families came to my grandson's birthday party last year because their son & my grandson were great friends in my daycare. It wasn't awkward at all because they are a really down to earth family and one in a million.

[mom-in-alberta]

Oh, I do agree that the family makes a difference, too! If you have already crossed that grey zone and are now "friend-ish" then it wouldn't be as weird. We were invited to a 2nd birthday for a little guy who had just left care (mom on mat leave) and we really would have gone, but were busy with other commitments that day. I love the mom, and don't think it would have been awkward at all. Other families.... I picture us, sitting in one corner surrounded by their family and friends and itching to cut the cake so we can get the heck outta there!!

[playfelt]

When my kids were little it was very common to invite the daycare kids that were their age to their parties and mine were invited to the daycare child's party. I have done a few first birthday parties - dropping in for a few minutes at least - it is good networking since they often invite friends that also have little ones so I have even gotten children for care from a birthday party - cake, ice cream and a space filled all for standing around is not a bad way to spend an hour really. I have also done a few christenings over the years - mostly back when babies started care earlier. I think it was more a chance for the parents to show me off to the grandparents etc.

Would they be my activity of choice no. Would I simply rule them out on principle no. Would it totally depend on the family and our dynamics yes.

Just as we are more attached to the children that seem to be friendlier with us being friendly with your daycare families can make it harder for them to want to break ties in the future. Not probably enough to struggle through one of their events but maybe.

Where I do draw the line is socially as in I have attended activities on behalf of their kids but not gone to things like an avon party or birthday for one of the parents as in the type of events their friends would be invited to. In that sense I do keep my distance.