Should You Send Thank You Notes After a Child’s Party?

Gratitude is great - but do you really need to write 30 cards after all that cake?

You’ve just hosted your child’s birthday party. The balloons have deflated, the leftover crisps have been hoovered up, and you’ve finally stopped humming “Happy Birthday” on autopilot. Then it hits you… “Am I supposed to send thank you notes?”

It’s one of those little parenting questions that seems simple - but quickly turns into a guilt-ridden internal debate. So let’s settle it: Do you have to send thank you notes after your kid’s party? And if so, how?

Here’s what you really need to know - no guilt trips included.

The Case For Sending Thank You Notes

Sending thanks is, at its core, a lovely gesture. Here’s why some parents still swear by it:

• It teaches gratitude - Getting your child involved in thanking guests is a great way to build appreciation for the gifts and time others gave them.

• It’s thoughtful - Especially if someone went the extra mile with a personalised gift or made a long trip to attend.

• It stands out - In a digital world, receiving a handwritten card or personalised message feels a bit special.

And yes - some people (especially older relatives) do notice if they don’t receive a thank you. But for most families these days, the rules are loosening.

The Pressure is Real

Between work, school runs, and scrubbing chocolate icing out of your carpet, it’s no wonder many parents question whether thank you notes are really necessary. The truth is:

• Not everyone expects them - Most parents understand that life is busy, and a thank-you at the party (or even just a smile) goes a long way.

• It can feel forced - Writing 25 identical notes about how much your child “loved the Play-Doh set” isn’t the most genuine experience for anyone involved.

• Some kids just aren’t into it - Trying to force a 5-year-old to handwrite cards to everyone who gave them a packet of stickers can turn into a full-on power struggle.

Bottom line: saying thank you is polite - how you do it is up to you.

Modern Thank You Alternatives That Work Just Fine

Not every thank you needs to be written on unicorn stationery. Here are easy, low-effort ways to show appreciation without the hassle:

1. Text or WhatsApp Message

Send a short message to each parent: “Thanks so much for coming to Isla’s party! She loved the colouring set - it was such a thoughtful gift!” Bonus points if you include a fun party photo of their child!

2. Group Message or Email

Post a thank you message in the WhatsApp group or email chain used for RSVPs. Something like: “Thank you all for making Ellie’s birthday so amazing! She had the best time, and we’re so grateful for all the lovely gifts and company.”

3. Short Video Message from Your Child

Record a 30-second thank-you message from your child and share it with friends or on your parent group. It’s sweet, quick and surprisingly effective.

4. Have Your Child Make a Few Special Cards

Rather than writing 25 cards, have your child make just a few for close friends, family, or anyone who gave a particularly meaningful gift. This keeps it manageable and meaningful.

Should Kids Write Their Own Thank You Notes?

If they’re old enough to write and understand the idea of gratitude, getting your child involved is a great learning opportunity - but it doesn’t need to be formal or forced.

• For younger kids - Drawing a picture or signing their name is more than enough. 

• For older kids - One sentence per gift or a voice note can be just as meaningful.

• For teens - A quick DM or message might be all that’s needed in their social world.

The goal isn’t perfection - it’s helping them understand the value of saying thanks in whatever way feels authentic.

After the Party, Focus on What Matters

At the end of the day, a thank you isn’t about the format - it’s about the feeling. Whether it’s a handwritten card, a group text, or a cheerful wave at the school gates, most people will just appreciate being acknowledged.

And honestly? After hosting an epic birthday bash, you’ve already earned a gold star.

Want a Party That Leaves Everyone Saying Thank You?

At Non Stop Kids Entertainment, we deliver parties so fun, engaging, and memorable that the guests thank you. From hilarious entertainers and themed adventures to magic shows and interactive games, we make your child’s big day unforgettable (and stress-free for you).