For years, parents of young children have been overwhelmed about the amount of birthday parties coming up in Marin County, including three this Saturday alone. Now, authorities are stepping in to offer help — and a way out.
Speaking at a town hall, Mental Health Commissioner Liz Jinsen said, “First of all, if you can’t handle another birthday, just make up an excuse and move on with your life.” She reminded parents that a photo of a positive Covid test still gets you out of literally anything. "You can download one from our crisis center if you don't have one on your phone."
Jinsen went on to lay out some new ground rules for party-throwers. “If it’s a ‘drop-off’ party, congratulations — you’re already in compliance. But if the parents are required to attend, be mindful that these events can be excruciating for adults. You must provide safe spaces for them to disassociate.”
Jinsen concluded by addressing the role of schools in the crisis. “This whole business about the entire class having to be invited — you can ignore it.” Parents have complained that a rule meant to prevent kids from being left out effectively means that if your son wants to invite his favorite classmate, he also has to invite the kid who left a booger on his chair.
“That’s not right,” said Jinsen.