It is dishearthening when we feel that we aren't doing enough for our children. However, you are doing your best and carrying her to McDonalds playland may give her a chance to play with other children.

How is she doing in preschool? Is she outgoing with the other children? Is she making friends. If so then you probably don't need to worry.

As parents all we can do is our best and it sounds like you have done your best to make her birthday a pleasant one. Don't be so hard on yourself.

When my daughter was young I kept her at home until she went to preschool she didn't have any friends to start with but quickly made her own friends. Her lack of friends before preschool never really caused a problem. Anyway, this is just to show you that lack of friends at an early age doesn't mean it will always be like that.

Have a fun day with your daughter. She will remember the good times the two of you have had.