DD5 is idolised by my parents. They love DD2 as well but the eldest is the apple of their eye.
For Xmas they got DD5 a lovely craft kit, exactly what she asked for, costing around £20. I had asked them what they were planning on getting for DD2 so we could avoid duplicate gifts. They said that they were buying her a bird box. I (tactfully) reminded them that we already have a bird box, plus it's not much fun for a 2 year old. I suggested a sledge instead which they thought was a great idea.
Roll round Xmas day, DD5 gets her lovely craft kit PLUS a sledge because they didn't want her to be jealous. DD2 gets a sledge plus two second hand books that are too young for her (with one duplicate we already had).
This is not a money issue and I have no issue with 2nd hand gifts, it's about the disparity between the thought put into the two children's presents. DD2 is too young to care but DD5 is starting to be aware that her gifts are not comparable.
My Mum thought I was being unkind to her when I raised it but I felt it showed a tone-deaf lack of awareness about fairness and favouritism.
Keen to hear others' opinions.