To think we should end the tradition of birthday presents from friends?

[VeggyGravy]

I'm not am I?

I don't want my children to get a butt load of plastic tat that will end up broken or given to a charity shop and eventually end up in a landfill.

People on MN often say that you can't say "no presents" on the invite. You should just graciously accept the presents and give them away. So people spend money they might not really have to give your child gifts you don't want. And in the end it ends up in the bin.

Oh and party bags while we're at it, does anyone want any of the crap that comes in them in their hose?

Or house even!

I live in a different country. Party bags are unheard of. The spend per present is agreed between the parents when they start school. It's about £2.50. Ds got lots of cars and crayons and tiny lego sets. I must say I like the low expectations. Makes it all much less stressful.

You mean the child survive without partybags! Honestly, when I rule the world it's the first thing gone

I always give books and a bag of haribo instead of party bags. Can't wait to Chuck away the plastic when DD comes home with one. Same with happy meal toys!