Kid's Birthday Parties

I have been there myself. They do cost a fortune. When I had the money my kids got the best birthdays I could afford. Now that they are older, well, things are much less. But they appreciate everything we do. That is the most important thing.

I have 2 teens and have only done 3 parties for them ever. My son's 1st birthday. My daughter's first and my son's 3rd (combined party because they're born in the same week of the same month) and then one for when my son turned 8 and my daughter turned 6. Parties are a waste of money in my opinion. When I was a little girl, people didn't show up empty handed to a party. If they didn't have a lot of money, they still came with at least a birthday card you could save in a scrapbook or something. My kids barely got any gifts, hardly any cards, people came and ate and left. Nope. If I'm gonna shell out $500 or more, I may as well spend it directly on my kids.

Some people sure overdo the kids parties. I am not for that at all.

One time my grandson seemed disappointed that he only got one small gift with his Easter candy. I reminded him that it wasn't Christmas. I think it's a shame how much money some parents spend on birthdays, just to top the last friend's party. How about taking one friend and go to Chucky Cheese or some fun place without having to take out a loan for a party.

I look around and think the same thing.. we used to have very simple affairs when my kids were young..No professional decorTets, theme etc

I think a party should only be what a person can afford. It makes no sense to go in debt to through a big party. The children are happy as long as they have a small get together with family and friends. It doest have to be anything big.

I like to keep the birthday parties simple. I find it less stressful that way.