The modern parenting dilemna: how to control the avalanche of stuff your child gets for their birthday. Sophie's birthday is in early February and we still aren't quite over Christmas and she has been asking about sending out her birthday invitations for 2 weeks.
This year I did some web research and checked my conscience. After consulting Sophie, we agreed that this year we could try something different. We've inserted in her invitations the little note that she is holding in her hand in the photo. It says "instead of presents, we would be very happy to have your presence at Sophie's party. Sophie is saving up for a special item, so if you would like to bring a toonie, Sophie and her piggy bank would be thrilled."
I debated this for quite awhile. I know some etiquette books say that children need to learn how to give and receive gifts and by suggesting they not bring gifts (and just a $2 toonie) they are not learning this "skill." Plus, it may sound gauche to suggest a monetary figure. I beg to differ and I think those etiquette books were written 20-30 years ago when there was much less easily accessible "stuff." You can get a Hannah Montana barbie doll for $5! Toys are not that expensive anymore. Hence, we have too much stuff.
Sophie wants to buy a Build-a-Bear when we go to Disneyland in April and she is saving up for it on her own. I think this will be a good way to teach her the value of a dollar, savings, and hopefully lessen the burden that other parents feel when they have to go out and buy a present.
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