When we posted Happy No Gift Day to You, we discussed the idea of not allowing presents at children's birthday parties. Moms discussed the issue and came back with differing responses. One mom said: "I still think children like to give and receive gifts on birthdays. My kids have been to "grab only" parties where each guest is asked to bring a small ($5-10) grab in lieu of a gift. Each child experiences both giving and receiving and leaves happy. Enjoyable for all!" Laura disagreed: "I love the no gift idea--keeps you from getting stuff you don't want your kid to have, plus saves you the $$ you would spend on gifts for other children as well. Imagine the nice big donation you could make to a charity if you skipped gifts for all of those birthday parties your kids go to!"
Would you consider disallowing gifts at your child's next birthday party?
I'm sorry I disagree I think a persons birthday is special and I feel kids can learn to give and recieve. if you feel strongly about charity fine pick a day and do something for the community, don't make kids suffer just because adults have this idea of what they feel giving is.
What I like about this idea, is: Some people have more than one birthday party; one for family members/close friends and another that is geared for the child's school friends, or whatever. While family members and close friends often insist on giving a gift, I think it's a great idea for the people who may not know you/your child that well (for everyone involved.) So this is a good way to balance everything. And it teaches your child how to both receive/write thank you notes AND how to give to others (charity.)
My friend always does charity donations at every party. She tells everyone how much her kids enjoy it. But one year her 3 year old said to me, "My mom said you can get a present for me if you want." I thought that was kind of sad.
I like the first idea. It makes kids learn giving at an early age.