I just picked up my daughter from yet another birthday celebration, and as she sprinted towards the car, I couldn’t help but notice the spring in her step. What was the cause of her excitement this time? Apparently, the host mom had gifted each girl with stunning 14-karat gold initial necklaces. Naturally, this was far more extravagant than the gift I had chosen for the birthday child or even the present I got for my own daughter. As I drove away, my hands gripping the steering wheel at 10 and 2, I found myself daydreaming about what I might say to that mom.
Truthfully, I’ve never given much thought to what goes into a birthday party favor. In fact, I find it downright ridiculous that I’m expected to give gifts to other kids on my child’s birthday. For my son’s last celebration, I grabbed eight candy bars at the Target checkout just ten minutes before guests arrived, tossed them in a bowl, and let each child pick one on their way out. I was pretty pleased with my last-minute creativity, if I do say so myself.
While I’m not a fan of cheap trinkets mixed with leftover Halloween candy, I think some parents need to tone it down. Here are a few of the more outrageous favors I’ve encountered:
- Personalized golf balls and a metal putter for a party held at a putt-putt course.
- A gumball machine filled to the brim (the irony was not lost on anyone, given that the kid’s dad was a dentist).
- A set of monogrammed sunglasses, a T-shirt, and a makeup-filled purse for a “Rock Star VIP” party, complete with a red carpet and paparazzi.
- A live fish in a plastic bag, which led me to spend my Sunday setting up a proper home for it, as I didn’t want my child thinking I was a fish-killer.
- A Pottery Barn canvas tote stuffed with flip-flops, sunscreen, and a monogrammed towel for a beach-themed celebration.
- A $32 box of sand art, which guarantees this mom will be on my list of grievances for life.
Let’s be real for a moment: these extravagant favors are clearly meant to impress other parents, not to genuinely delight their children. And let’s face it, most parents don’t really enjoy spending time with other people’s kids. I can easily imagine Mrs. Jones lounging on her private island, sipping a martini and thinking, “How can I make these parents go even crazier?”
Here’s a thought, ladies. If you’re so worried about what others think, why not send the kids home with gifts for their moms? Perhaps a stylish new purse filled with mini bottles of wine? A subscription to a Wine of the Month club? Or maybe a gift card for a much-needed pedicure? Until that day comes, let’s dial it back a bit. Our kids will have just as much fun at your petting-zoo-themed party (the giraffe was a real hit!) devouring food-truck tacos and savoring your child’s three-tiered, gluten-free buttercream cake—without needing a gift of their own.
For more insights into parenting and celebrations, you can check out this post on our other blog. And if you’re looking for resources about pregnancy, visit WomensHealth.gov for excellent information.
Summary
The article discusses the growing trend of extravagant birthday party favors, reflecting on the pressures parents face to keep up with one another. The author shares amusing anecdotes from various parties and advocates for a return to more manageable, enjoyable celebrations for kids without the competitive favor culture.