Party etiquette
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I tend to ask the parents what the child likes and find something within my budget to meet the brief! There's nothing worse than recieving a gift a child has no interest in.
As is a joint party, I would buy something for the older brother too. I will spend £30-35 for both …
For a nursery friend I’d opt for a token present. I’d personally look for a book, maybe something on offer for £5 or so. If it was a friend I’d see out of nursery then I’d spend more, Edited to add I recently bought there’s a bear in my book by Tom fletcher for £4 - so still a nice present
@Natasha that was my thought lines. We occasionally bump into the parents on drop off/pick up, but our boys are thick as thieves (according to nursery). I’m happy to spend £15 or so on my sons friend if it’s something I think they will like. And I was thinking a token gift for the older brother. I just think kids don’t really understand the value of objects but I don’t want him to be upset thinking it was his birthday too and didn’t get a present.
@Geana that’s very generous of you! If we socialised with them too then I’d probably spend a bit more
@Anita I would ask but I expect their response would be along the lines of they aren’t expecting presents. Which is very kind but I can’t turn up to a birthday party empty handed! I know the boys like playing playdoh together at nursery so I’m thinking something like that seems like a safe bet?
@Rosie yeah definitely good shout you can get plenty of different types of playdoh sets. All parents have that humble response of your presence is enough.
Every time I’ve gone to a party where it’s been a joint party, either with a sibling or another friend that we don’t know, I don’t get a present for the sibling. I only get a present for the friend who we were invited for. Budget can be anywhere between £5-£15 If it’s a close friend and I know the parents it would be higher end of budget. If it’s someone I haven’t really met / not that much of a close friend of my son’s then it would be lower end of budget
I totally think it depends on your budget - think I tend to spend around £10-20, but we haven’t had many parties yet. I wouldn’t worry as they won’t even remember what you buy! I had a joint party and only bought for the 1 child - imagine the expense for parents and the amount of gifts received otherwise!