An uninvited party guest is always an awkward situation.
But what do you do when said guest is a child?
A stressed-out mum has vented her frustration online after throwing parties for her own child.
The mum of one of the child's friends brings her kid along to the party - but also has their older sibling in tow.
The older sibling demands lunch and party gifts, sometimes leaving not enough for the children who were actually invited.
The mum is desperate for this to stop, but she doesn't know how to say it without things becoming very awkward.
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Taking to Mumsnet, the woman wrote: "Now I know some people have to bring siblings and ask in advance. However, I know this person doesn't ask, as they brought their older sibling to my child's party a few weeks ago and didn't ask.
"I had made packed lunches, so I didn't have extra boxes. In fact, they didn't even say when arriving. The very rude child then demanded lunch and a party bag, the mum was oblivious and today was style same."
She continued: "Today this sibling who is at least 5 years older than the birthday child took prizes when not enough for the actual friends of the birthday girl. AIBU, or should I and all parties over cater for everyone to bring siblings?"
A debate ensued in the comment section as other parents flocked to give their opinions.
One wrote: "Extremely rude behaviour."
"Whoever is hosting should say they can't stay at that start," wrote another.
A third added: "I hate this new thing of siblings coming to parties. It p****s me right off. Yes, I understand they might have to be there to drop off and the parent not able to stay for the party but that is preferable that an uninvited guest just coming.
"Parents wouldn't do it at any other invite so don't do it at a kids party. If we wanted siblings there we would state it on the invite. If not don't go or say you will have to drop and go as you have no childcare for sibling. Don't just invite whoever you want to someone else's party."
A fourth demanded: "Why wouldn’t you just say something to the mum? More fool the people who just allow it."
Another penned: "I’ve had this too, I ran out of party bags for DC’s friends because of unexpected siblings taking them. Lesson learnt and they are kept hidden until going home time.
"People still bring siblings without asking. It’s annoying, especially when the activity isn’t suitable for their ages. I now put on the invite a message about no siblings. People still show up with them!"
Do you think parents should be banned from bringing their other children to birthday parties? Let us know in the comments.
