PP has a point, though. If I’m reading correctly, I believe that she means that her kids would rather have items they will get use out of, rather than a bunch of random things that they won’t use at all. I don’t think it’s the monetary value that matters to them. And of course it goes without saying that they shouldn’t be rude about gifts to the gift giver.
However, let’s just take your suggestions for adults. Some are, in my opinion, incredibly generic, thoughtless gifts that people use to fill up space in a stocking that ultimately end up in the bin. It’s harsh but it’s true. There are so many better ideas out there for things of the same value that are a nice gift for someone.
Giving gifts isn’t about the money spent, but the thought that’s been put into the gift. You can’t seriously argue that a set of dominos has been a gift you’ve mulled over for weeks for that one person and you know they’re going to love them and play them every single night for weeks on end. And if they’re a fan of Dominos, they’ll have a nice set already.
I just think with the cost of living going up and the environmental issues the world is facing currently, if you are going to spend £x on a person, every penny should count towards something that is used and genuinely appreciated. Not fakely appreciated to pass themselves then stuffed in a drawer until the annual clear out where it’s chucked in the bin.
So, yes, I do think she has a point. Lets reduce the quantity of gifts and increase the quality. The same should go for stockings as well.
(Also, to clarify, I don’t think all your suggestions were rubbish. Socks and hair accessories are decent because they have a genuine use and they’re things people need but often forget to buy themselves).