Present budget

[Nicpem1982]

Hiya

My dd is starting to get invited to lots of birthday parties as she's just started pre school/nursery we average about 2 parties a month at the moment, and I know that this will likely increase as she gets older and class size increase.

For close friends/families children we budget around 15-20 pounds but if I'm honest I think this is quite high for a nursery friends whom we barely know - what do you normally spend? I don't want to be seen as tight

Sheldon - I see what you mean now I didn't think of that makes sense.

I think I'm going to budget 5-10 and try and pick up the odd bargain where I can.

I've stocked up on paper, tags and I'll pick some cards up this week.

Xmas - I know it's the present not the cost that's important but I'd like to give something decent (ish) that doesn't cost the earth that the children will like.

My dd loves games and books and I think that's a pretty safe bet with most children??

We spend £3-5 for nursery age gradually the budget increases as they get older and invited to much fewer parties!

A present/paper/cards stash is an excellent idea, I really recommend it. It also saves those 'ah balls, the party is this afternoon and we've no time to buy anything' moments!

DS had his first big party recently (he was 3) and I would say people spent £5-10 with some post Christmas bargains in the mix.

I think that's really weird if people specifically spend less on a present for a child doing a home party. What if that is all that the parents can afford - does that mean their child deserves less of a present just because your child isn't getting to go rollerblading or to soft play?

Having done both home and event- type parties I can honestly say a home party can cost a lot. Plus it is lovely if people go to the effort of a home party ( if they have the space and the inclination!) In our case it took lots of effort - cleaning house, hosting and organising games, decorating, choosing prizes and party bags and buying and making all the food. Not necessarily a cheap option - but even if it was, kids seem to love the contrast of a home party sometimes.

Both types of party are good and it is lovely if my child is asked to either - I would not be costing out how much to spend on a present based on what I perceived she getting out of it!

Never had one. My gorgeous DS has severe learning difficulties and has not once in his 11 years ever been invited to a party, in spite of my DH & I giving him one every year and inviting his SN classmates. Oh they all come along (and bring siblings uninvited) but not once has any of them ever reciprocated. He's never been on a sleep over or playdate either. Cunts. Sorry, had to get that out.

That is really rubbish Leelulumpkin I'm sorry for your DS

Sorry, posted too soon... but it is lovely of you to keep hosting them for him. That's what he will remember

LeeLulu That's so sad.

In answer to your original question OP, I'm also in the £5-10 camp.

Thanks guys (sorry don't know how to do links for names) It is rubbish but I feel pathetic now for blurting that out. It is what it is and I have to suck it up. I am, however an eternal optimist and hope he will one day.

When that day eventually comes the invitee is going to be one lucky kid as I have 11 years to make up for! :)

So OP in response to your original question - I have no budget. I'd probably be so happy that I would buy the kid a pony!

i spend about £15-20 on a present, then £3 on a card and wrapping.

There are 2 reasons for this. 1 - we have 2 dc going to the parties. 2 - i am totally disorganised and have no time, so i rush out to the nearest shop and do a smash and grab on the first things i see. I am going to try to shop better tho in future.

Thanks for all the tips :)

leelulu that's so sad. My heart goes out to you and your ds

Ebay is your friend

You can get things like Emoji cushions for £1.35 with free delivery

8 Star wars Hot Wheels for £11.99 / £1.50 each)

6 sets of Minecraft mini action figures £10.49/ £1.75 each

Puzzle Castle £2.81 each

Puzzle Car Race £2.81 each

Musical Guitar £1.59

Wooden Rattles 99p

Hatching Eggs £1.19

:)

all above with free delivery :)

Leelulu - I'm really sorry to hear that people can be vile 😢💐

Squit - that's a very valid point equal budget for all I think

001- i don't think I'd be comfortable buying gifts imported from eBay because I don't know if these items would meet British safety standards and that would worry me as some of the children are young.

Sorry, I didn't answer your original question...

I'd say people spend £5-£7 for a classmate's party. Maybe £10 for a good friend.

Lots of people pick up things on 3 for 2 offers or Book People deals. Books and games are always popular ( especially with parents!) Stationery and (decent) craft kits/ sticker books are good too.

It really doesn't need to be a big expensive thing at all.

£5-10 here too, aiming closer to £5 when possible but I like to get something decent so try for bargains rather than any old tat! Prob spend more like £10-15 if the family are close friends. Quality Save can be good for cheap toys.