K.A. asks from New Market, AL on April 12, 2008
Birthday Party Goodie Bags
Is it just me or have these birthday party goodie bags taken the spotlight off the birthday kid and caused our children to expect to GET something all the time-even when it's not their birthday?? When I was a child I had to learn how to GIVE to others and not expect something everywhere I went. A birthday is the one time of the year that is the child's own special day. And when I was a kid I got excited about the cake and going to the party itself-not what I was going to receive at another's birthday party! The other gift-giving holidays are usually times when gifts are given back and forth so children give and receive. My question to y'all is this-if I feel strongly about this issue, do I stop giving goodie bags at my son's parties and risk offending other parents?? It's not that I don't want to get these small gifts for other children (although they can really add up $$)-their parents can teach them any way they want to. I just don't want to further the expectations of my own child my participating in things just because everyone else does. I would love to hear some thoughts...
So What Happened?™
I feel so much better knowing I am not alone in my thoughts and feelings on the goodie bags. I truly appreciate all the responses and suggestions! My son's 4th birthday party was last Saturday and I DID give out small goodie bags and gave the remaining ones to the kids in my son's class at school that did not attend the party. I have decided, though, that I will not give them out again. Thanks again and I'm glad to hear so many of you-whichever preference you have-are thoughtful and concerned for the happines and wellfare of our children! God Bless!
More Answers
A.T. answers from Oklahoma City on April 12, 2008
I enjoy giving goodie bags out at my child's parties. Since my child was born (he is now 8) I have always written "NO GIFTS" on the invitations I send out but still have given out goodie bags to everyone. He enjoys the party and being with his friends with no expectation of "what he is getting". I let him pick out the items he wants to give in the goodie bags. If he does receive gifts even after "NO GIFTS" is stated we open them at home in private.
3 moms found this helpful
D.R. answers from Fayetteville on April 12, 2008
If you feel that strongly about it just don't give out favors and don't worry about who you will offend. I personally think party favors are a nice touch and enjoy giving them but I really don't think it should be a big deal if you decide not to.
2 moms found this helpful
A.B. answers from Tulsa on April 12, 2008
This is something I did in replace of the goodie bag that was a real hit. At my daughters 5th birthday she wanted a slumber party. My husband and I decided she was really to young and made it a Pajama Party. I found a foam Photo album craft that was slumber party themed for the girls to do. I took pictures during the party, let the girls decorate there Photo Albums then I printed the pictures and send one home with each girl. This was last Nov. When I go to my Daughter's school the girls still talk about there photo albums.
I found the photo album kits in a package of 6 kits on sale for $5.00 it was a lucky find I have to admit. Think outside the box. Good Luck with the Party have fun!!
2 moms found this helpful
J.E. answers from Tulsa on April 12, 2008
I say don't give one! It does add up to a lot of money. I have 4 children and it seems like birthdays are constantly being planned! I have always given goodie bags myself- but we're having a lot of stuff at my soon-to-be 4 year olds party that we've decided not to make one. The candy from the pinata, cake and punch is going to be plenty!
1 mom found this helpful
N.P. answers from Enid on April 12, 2008
For several of my daughter's parties, I have done a book exchange in lieu of birthday gifts. Everyone brings a book, and then, picks a new book to take home. A lot of parents have really liked this idea. I also give out the same book to each family as a birthday party favor, but this wouldn't be necessary. Scholastic book clubs have a book for 95 cents each month so when I see one I really like, I buy enough for birthday party favors. They can also be used as birthday, baby shower, or thank you cards if you write in the inside cover.
1 mom found this helpful
K.P. answers from Huntsville on April 12, 2008
I understand everything you are saying and it really makes sense. Its your childs day! Plus its not like we dont spend a fortune on planning and preparing for it....adding more $ for other kids gifts starts getting a little crazy. However, I do give out goodie bags and I think I have just always looked at it as a "thank-You" for coming and also for buying my child something. With all that said I really feel as if its a personal choice. There is no rule saying you have to provide them. Hope this helps!
1 mom found this helpful
M.M. answers from Enid on April 12, 2008
I don't give out goodie bags at birthday parties. Don't sweat it. If someone mentions it, just say it's not one of your birthday traditions. My mom never gave goodie bags so it never occurred to me to do it either.
1 mom found this helpful
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