I used to do this when I had older kids. What we would do is have a get together quickly after work. The kids and I would make cookies and decorate them and I would put out some other baking, make tea, coffee and punch. It was quick, some parents only stayed a few minutes - just long enough for a coffee and cookie. Most stayed till the last parent arrived and many tried to get away from work a few minutes early to come. The nice thing was it was done before supper, little fuss, little muss and everyone went away happy. Now with so many little ones it just becomes more of a nightmare with the need for bibs, highchairs, sippy cups etc. By after work they all just want to go home for supper and bed.