Am I unfair for not having a party for my son when he turns 6 next week?

[Heathermoorland]

He’s had two big birthday parties - one when he turned 4 and one when he turned 5.
When he turned 4 we had a bouncy castle in a hall party and invited all his nursery friends plus a few from outside school. When he turned 5 last year we invited all his reception class, that was a soft play one.

I said next year he can choose a few friends to go bowling or something, but this year we’re just having a meal with family.

Honestly don’t be guilted into the expense. We did it for years, more and more expensive, as my mother felt they should have a party ( I had one in the house as a child)
Its hundreds of pounds and a very stressful time for yourself, and it creates expectations in the child.

My kids didn't have parties every year.

We have never done the big party thing for DDs, we've spent the money on a family day out to the zoo or some other day trip instead.

But they still have a handful of friends over for a mini party. It really is just a playdate with some party bags and birthday cake!