Using birthday money for essentials

[IceIceCoffee]

I have a one year old they have so many toys. They have some birthday money from relatives. Would you save it or put it towards their new car seat as then it’s going on something useful?
I think I’d be unreasonable to put it towards the seat but not sure if it’s just parent guilt.
So would I be unreasonable to use it towards the seat?
Thanks

Thanks for all the responses quite mixed views on it

If you need it use it and put it back later

I agree with this. I don’t see it as stealing at all. I know you have budgeted already but you could get a really good car seat with the cash.

Then when you are in a position to open a savings account put the money back.

As a grandparent I would always asks if there is something the child needs, before I buy something they would like.
If it’s a big item like a car seat I would offer money towards it, then give a small gift to be opened as well. Especially when they are small and are happy with a small gift. I also buy clothes if requested ie I ask what they need, get told pyjamas would be appreciated, buy nice pjs maybe a bit more expensive than parents would normally buy. Or with characters on that child likes so more of a gift than a necessity.
Yes parents should budget for essentials but it’s nice to be able to help out.

I can't believe there are people happily boasting that they have spent money gifted to their child on themselves. I guess stealing's ok as long as it's from a blood related child then

It's birthday money, not diverting their trust fund.

I’m going to put it towards a day out for them instead their sibling also has money to spend so could do something together.
The car seat is not used everyday as we don’t drive but they do go in family cars so we do need one so I’m not sure if I’d be pushing the essential item angle.
Thanks for all the responses

I would put it in a savings account for them or even their piggy bank to be used on small treats throughout the year. Unless you are really strapped for cash in which case I would use it to buy the car seat.

@Aprillygirl how is she stealing the child's money if she's using it to buy what the child need's?

•@Aprillygirl how is she stealing the child's money if she's using it to buy what the child need's?*

I was aiming that tweet to the people who are buying themselves kitchen equipment and clothes with their DC's gift money, not the OP.

I can’t see an issue with this, I have done similar in the past. You’re still spending it on them, it’s not like you’re using it for a night out!

Save it for toys when they outgrow what they currently have.