What Information Should Go on a Child’s Birthday Invitation?

What Information Should Go on a Child’s Birthday Invitation?

You have chosen the party theme, booked the venue and somehow survived the negotiations over who is and is not being invited.

Now you need to write the invitations.

A children’s birthday invitation does not need to contain an essay, but it should give parents all the information they need without having to send you seventeen follow-up messages.

Here is a simple checklist.

1. Your Child’s Name

Make it clear whose birthday is being celebrated.

Examples:

Come and celebrate Amelia’s 7th birthday!

Leo is turning 5!

Join us for Ava’s magical birthday party.

If several children at school share the same first name, adding the surname initial may help avoid confusion.

2. Their Age

Including the age helps guests understand the type of party and makes the invitation feel more personal.

Examples:

Sophie is turning 6!

Level 8 unlocked!

Calling all superheroes to celebrate Jack’s 5th birthday!

The wording can match the party theme without making the details difficult to understand.

3. The Party Date

Write the full date, including the day of the week.

For example:

Saturday 19 September 2026

This is clearer than writing only “19 September” and helps parents spot accidental date mistakes.

Double-check the calendar before ordering. A beautifully foiled invitation cannot rescue a party accidentally booked for the wrong Sunday.

4. Start and Finish Times

Include both the start and collection time.

For example:

2:00pm–4:00pm

Or:

Please arrive at 1:45pm for a 2:00pm start. Collection is at 4:00pm.

Parents need to know whether they are staying, leaving or returning later.

For parties at activity centres, cinemas or shows, mention whether late arrivals could miss part of the event.

5. The Venue

Include the full venue name and address.

For example:

Rainbow Play Centre
24 Example Road
Manchester
M1 2AB

Do not assume everyone knows where “the community hall” is.

Including the postcode is especially helpful for parents using maps or sat-nav.

6. RSVP Information

Tell guests:

  • Who to reply to
  • How to reply
  • The deadline for replying

For example:

Please RSVP to Kirsty on 07123 456789 by 5 September.

An RSVP deadline gives you time to confirm catering, party bags, seating and activity numbers.

Without one, you may still be receiving “Is it too late to come?” messages while lighting the birthday candles.

7. Whether Parents Should Stay

This is especially important for younger children.

You could write:

Parents are welcome to stay.

This is a drop-off party. Please collect at 4:00pm.

One adult per child is welcome to remain.

If the venue limits adult numbers, say so clearly.

8. Food and Allergy Information

You do not need to list the entire menu, but it helps to tell parents whether food is included.

Examples:

Party food and drinks will be provided.

Please let us know about any allergies when replying.

Children will receive a meal at the venue.

Always collect allergy information directly from the parent or guardian rather than relying on the child to remember it.

9. Clothing or Equipment

Mention any special clothing requirements.

For example:

  • Socks are required for the soft-play area.
  • Please bring a swimming costume and towel.
  • Children should wear comfortable clothes.
  • Fancy dress is encouraged.
  • Please bring a coat for outdoor activities.

This avoids children arriving ready for a princess tea party when everyone else is climbing through mud.

10. Any Useful Extra Information

Depending on the party, you may also need to include:

  • Parking information
  • Meeting points
  • Entry instructions
  • Whether siblings can attend
  • Whether presents are optional
  • A party theme
  • Accessibility information
  • Whether guests need a waiver completed beforehand

Keep the main invitation easy to read. Longer instructions can be sent separately after guests have replied.

Ready-to-Use Invitation Wording

Come and celebrate Olivia’s 6th birthday!

Saturday 19 September 2026
2:00pm–4:00pm

Rainbow Play Centre
24 Example Road, Manchester, M1 2AB

Party food will be provided.

Please RSVP to Kirsty on 07123 456789 by 5 September and let us know about any allergies.

Parents are welcome to stay.

Check Everything Before Ordering

Before submitting personalised invitations, check:

  • Spelling of the child’s name
  • Age
  • Day and date
  • Start and finish times
  • Venue name
  • Full address and postcode
  • RSVP name and number
  • RSVP deadline
  • Allergy or clothing notes

Reading the invitation aloud can help you notice missing words or awkward sentences.

Make the Invitation Match the Celebration

The invitation is the first little glimpse guests receive of the party.

Whether the theme is superheroes, princesses, gaming, animals or something completely unique, personalised invitations make the celebration feel exciting before it has even started.

Need a card to match?  Have a look at our birthday cards

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