|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pregnancy, Babies, Adoption and Children |
|
Pre-Arrival Party
A party to celebrate the arrival of a new member of the family is a celebration of parenthood and community, and for your friends and family to show their love and support for you during this time. A pre-arrival party does not have to be a traditional baby shower (although we understand that there are a lot of people who have great fun in attending these events). This event could be as simple as going out for lunch with a few friends or having a formal ceremony with a celebrant. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the special role that each parent will have in the child’s life and can be especially important for non-birth parents. A pre-arrival party can be unique to each family and you can choose to celebrate from the time you begin the process of adoption, fostering or conception up until the arrival of the new child. You may even decide to have several celebrations as you reach key milestones in the process!
Welcoming Ceremony
A welcoming ceremony can be held for all new members of the family including new babies, older children and even furry family. A welcoming ceremony is an opportunity to formally introduce this new family member to friends and community and to ask them to love and nurture the child throughout life’s journey. A welcoming ceremony could be a naming ceremony, a spiritual ceremony (such as a baptism) or for older children, a formal dinner or a special holiday. This is an opportunity for you to appoint guardians who can provide support and guidance for the child. A welcoming ceremony allows other children in the family to have a role in acknowledging the new member and can help them to accept their new role in this family member’s life. A celebrant can assist you in planning this celebration, however there are no rules when it comes to welcoming ceremonies and you can choose to celebrate in a way that reflects your beliefs and your family.
Family Blending
Although its well acknowledged that family separations can be difficult for children, it is often unacknowledged that family blending or new parent relationships can also have an effect on a child. Children may feel confused or unsure of their place in this new family structure and may worry that they are betraying other family members with these new relationships. A family blending ceremony can be a useful process for children (and adults) to enable them to embrace the new people in their lives. It is important in a family blending ceremony that each child is recognised both as an individual and as a valued member of this new family. This event can be emotional so it is necessary to carefully consider the structure of the celebration, the guests and the relationships your children have with people who may not be present. Children should be a part of the decision making for this day so they feel included in the celebration, and should not be discouraged to discuss this celebration with broader family and friends even if it may make you uncomfortable.
Children’s Parties
No matter what the age of your children it is lovely to celebrate their accomplishments and achievements such as birthdays, anniversaries and special events. When your children are young their parties are a great opportunity to catch up with friends and family and share special moments over fine wine and food. As your children reach their school years, the emphasis will inevitably be placed on activities that they will enjoy and will remember in future years. School age children love helping to invite their friends, prepare food and decorations and choose their special outfits for the day. As they near their teenage years, their events will increasingly reflect their own personality and the influence of their peer group. There are many venues that specialise in children’s parties and can provide the entire event including invitations, cake, activities and will even clean-up the mess. If you want to have a party at home or in a public space, make sure you plan ahead and invite an appropriate number of guests for the venue size.
Education and Achievements
If your child is starting school, has brought home a fabulous new artwork, or has made the basketball team then this is an opportunity to celebrate! You don’t have to wait for graduation to celebrate your child’s achievements and skills. By going out to dinner at your child’s favourite restaurant, giving them a small keepsake, or inviting family and friends to key events, your child will feel special and proud of their achievements.
Coming of Age
Adolescence can be a difficult yet exciting time in a young person’s life as it marks the transition from childhood to adulthood. This rite of passage is acknowledged universally and is celebrated in many ways. Common celebrations include Sweet 16, 18th and 21st birthday parties, bar mitzvahs, confirmation and initiation ceremonies. Often these parties mark the transition of the child into the adult community and will usually involve their friends and family. The celebration may be a dinner at a fancy restaurant, backyard barbeque or night out with friends and adult family members. There are really no rules when it comes to coming of age celebrations, however you and your child should agree on the type of event. This is a really special occasion and it is important to include both your and your child’s ideas in the planning of the event.
BACK
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
