Gift Giving Alternatives (Comprehensive List)

When Robin F. of Seattle let out a shout to find out what people are doing at their kids’ parties if they aren’t requesting traditional gifts, she got many great ideas. She shares them here for anyone interested in gift giving alternatives:

1. Many are doing book exchanges in a few different ways:
   1. Guests bring a wrapped gift and everyone gets to take one home.
   2. Some open the books on the spot, others wait until the kids have gone home.
2. Give your child an experience rather than a party. If you allow friends to be invited, let the experience be the celebration, not the stuff.
3. Check out moonjar.org for any occasion as a reference guide. The organization teaches kids appropriate ways of spending, sharing, and saving dollars. Good resource!
4. Ask for presents appropriate for kids in the hospital and after the party the birthday child can deliver them.
5. Hold an inexpensive gift exchange (under $10) so that every kid receives a gift.
6. Request art supplies and donate them to a shelter.
7. Hobbit Practice — Better to Give than to Receive! Each child receives a gift, although they do not bring one.
8. Request a donation to a great organization like http://www.heifer.org/.
9. When donations are brought to the party for a favorite charity, have the birthday child deliver the donations to his chosen charity.
10. Contact a charity that is a favorite and ask for a Wish List, i.e. a list of stuff the organization really needs. As an example, the humane society may need leashes, collars, toys, etc. Request guests bring these items in lieu of birthday gifts to donate and make the wishes come true!

This is a great round-up of ideas that are alternatives to traditional party gifts!

Thanks, Robin F from Seattle, WA, for sharing these great ideas!