Saturday, October 04, 2008

Don't Want To Be A Dud!

My children rarely attend public school, but when they do I try to be a very involved mom. I go to the PTO meetings, help out with picture day, and yes, accept the responsibility of room mother. I mean, how hard could it be, was my thought.


When I asked Abram's teacher if she needed any assistance this year she replied, "Oh yes, we need a room mother." I thought, oh that sounds warm and fuzzy, sign me up. Then I realized that it meant I was in charge of classroom parties. IN CHARGE! Okay, okay, I consoled myself by going back in my memory bank and remembering how my parties were when I was in school. A few cute napkins, cupcakes, and maybe some holiday pencils to pass out, right? WRONG!



I spoke with another "professional room mom" about the job and she elaborated on all the ridiculous expectations for me. She let me know that it was a BIG DEAL! She said that they had to do at least two crafts that were holiday appropriate. The goodies had to be store bought, and there needed to be goody bags for each student. She let me know of the site that would give me all the expensive little treats and off she trotted. I stood there a little dumbfounded, and I may have had some cold sweat on my upper lip as she exited through the school corridor. Every since that eye opening conversation I have been dreeeaaaading the first class party.


Well the notice finally arrived. I sat at the dining room table, pulled out the paraphernalia from Abram's backpack, and there it was; the paper listing the names and numbers of the 21 students. I felt my eyes glaze over. I mean I'm thankful that the mom shared with me the expectations because I wouldn't want to be known as the "dud" room mother, but holy cow the pressure is on. My mind's eye sees the little kids pounding on their desks for a better party and Abram crying in the corner because his mom doesn't know how to entertain 7 year olds properly.

Well, I say let's get this first party over with, and the rest should be smooth sailing, at least I HOPE!

15 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oriental Trading Company! :) I'm not a room mother yet, but I know where to get those things because we used them for favors at all the playgroup parties.

Lori said...

What is the first party? We are only allowed a Christmas and Valentine party. Last year was my first year to be blessed with a room mom. Don't be nervous about the crafts - the internet is your friend! You should also have a co-chair or a helper mom. I would type up a volunteer letter and have the teacher send it home and ask if anyone wants to be co-chair. My last bit of advice - last year, my room mom took up donations of $3 per kid to fund the party. That way the kids got the goodie bags, cookies and played games and she didn't have to foot the whole bill everytime. Most parents are happy to just pay $3 to $5 and not have to go to the store or worry about it. GOOD LUCK!

Trina said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Trina said...

Our first party is Halloween. So it's coming right up. I appreciate the helpful advice, and I will surely take it. ((HUGS))

Sis. Connie M. said...

Let me know if you come up with anything good! Please!!! I have the same chore for Cassi's class and I am brain dead. We have done the decorating cookies thing to death! My problem last year was finding foods that all could eat. We had a girl who is diabetic AND allergic to gleuten. URG! No sugar or flour!?!?!? What to bring! Make sure you ask the teacher about any allergies before the party. The girl in Cassi's class is very sensetive and loves it when she can eat the same as the class. This year tho, we have no issues. It should be smooth sailing!

Madeleine said...

18 years ago, the only time my son went to school, I was the room mother.

Even then I was stunned at what was expected.

I hope it works out and that children are delighted!

meNmykids said...

Wow! Big expectations. I'm sure you'll do great, you have such a great creative streak.

Sabriena said...

Oh my. I don't know if I would be up to that, truth be told! Crafts? Give them pumpkin shaped pieces of orange felt. Cut out a bunch of black triangles. Buy some glue. Let them decorate their pumpkins. LOL! Let us know how it goes.

Chantel H said...

Holy cow! I don't remember school parties like this! Sounds outragously expensive. EEKS! So how many parties do you have to put on this year? Maybe you should make the "party fund" a regular part of your budget. hehe

Sis. Lori P. said...

Sounds WAY too overwhelming... but hey, I just co-hosted a tea party for 100. Wonder what I do in my spare time? I'm going to sit here and thank God I don't have to be a room mother right now! Love you Trina!

Marisela said...

I was "Room Mom" when Alyssa went to school there, and the expectaions were kind of high...almost like a competition. One mom even rented a cotton candy machine. But really you have nothing to be nervous about. I have been to some of your parties and they are always fun and you are so creative and you are great at arts and crafts, so youv'e got this no sweat!

Nadine said...

Sounds like a lot of work, but from what I read about you - you are perfect for the job.

I'm sorry I haven't been around. Life has been crazy busy these last few months.

Mrs.Martin said...

Laughing at your last two posts Trina. As your sister, I am giggling with understanding knowing you so well. Way to go from homeschool mama to home mother. He He...

At least you have some time to figure out what to do.

Sylvia said...

I am so glad I don't have to do that. I would throw the lamest parties. I hope you have fun. I am sure the kids will have fun.

Chantel H said...

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