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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To control what Christmas presents my kids bring home this year

3 replies

cadburyegg · 21/08/2025 18:23

Kids are 10 and 7, and always spoilt at Christmas. Always have been. They come home from their dads - who have visited his parents - with just a huge amount of stuff. Last year the grandparents bought them scooters which the kids chose (which I was very grateful for) so it wasn’t too bad but this year I’m really dreading the stuff that comes back. I’m not exaggerating by how much it is. Recently they came home with two huge remote control cars (big enough almost for them to sit on) despite it not being anyone’s birthday. How am I supposed to find space to store all of this?

I have tried saying my ex - please don’t bring stuff back here. it all falls on deaf ears.

Another thing other than space is the only things they play with consistently are Lego and cars so most of the other stuff is played with for a few days and then forgotten about.

Anyway I’m thinking of taking the hard line of saying absolutely nothing to be brought here unless you have asked me first. But then I look like the bad guy to the kids.

Yes I know IABU by asking in August but grandparents will want to start buying in September and I want to have an idea of what to say.

OP posts:
arcticpandas · 21/08/2025 18:28

Can you not just tell them/tell your ex to tell them that you are greatful for their generosity but that you don't have any space for big toys. Also that if they want to please the kids for months and not just for weeks then Lego is the greatest gift (which just happens to not take up a lot of space😉).

pokeahontas · 21/08/2025 18:38

I hear you! Same here. The biggest, most ridiculous toys end up here and never get used. I’ve asked for experiences or vouchers instead and they always agree then just buy huge plastic crap anyway. And ex will never keep it at his. It’s all so wasteful but I know the grandparents enjoy spoiling the kids. I have to do regular clear outs as that’s the only way to have room for anything

ACynicalDad · 21/08/2025 18:39

Say presents from him stay at his place.

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