To not buy birthday gifts for others kids...

[Toughtips]

We have 3 birthday parties to go to in December. I wasn't thinking straight when it came to accepting them. I just can't afford to get a gift for each of those at this time of year. AIBU to just send a card?

I wouldn't mind one bit if you didn't bring a present to my child's party and I'm hoping to bring up my child to appreciate people more than things. And I can be a bit of a twat, so there are a lot of people much kinder and purer of heart than me that will feel the same. Don't worry OP.

(And I certainly wouldn't need you to explain that money was tight.)

I suggested a token gift earlier, but meant something to the value of £1-2, and it's not that I'm entitled, or raising my children to be entitled, but if someone is getting £10-20 presents for children all year, and then the December child gets nothing because the parent spent all their money on Christmas presents, it's not very fair, especially as its likely to happen year on year. My December birthday is always a non event as people are busy near christmas, yet my husband has a party with loads of friends and presents because its a more convenient time of year.

It's easy for a December child to feel forgotten about. I agree that it is better to attend with/without a card than not attend at all :)

^This is all general by the way, not saying that op has blown money all year and only now tightening her belt.

Pond shop or tiger also has really cheap nice things for kids.

And definitely don't buy a card - get your DC to make one! A piece of card / paper & some colouring pens done!

I would also much rather a guest came to my kid's party than didn't because of money. And I certainly wouldn't expect anyone to have to explain why, if they didn't buy a present.

My DTs get a made card each from one particular lad. I't their best one. They are now 10 and have had made ones from him for the past few years.

When you get, financially, on your feet again, it is a wise investment to get a packet of cheap fabric and ceramic pens. We use them a lot to design things in the school holidays - Children in need spotty t-shirt when I left it too late, xmas eve plates for teachers etc. Ours have lasted for about 7 years and it is fun to look back on the atrocious mugs that they have made aunties etc. Also having not off the shelf names they can have personalised stuff too.