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A very interesting recent topic came my way today as I reading some comments on other blogs…someone said that her son is 15 years old and still expects to have an annual birthday party. Also, that he doesn’t want presents from his friends and family anymore, but rather acts like the “Godfather” and collects the cash as they walk into the party. The rest of the party is compiled of video games and cake galore…with no end!
I say this is a pretty good gig if you can get it!!
Seriously, parents should not feel pressured by their teenage children to have parties for them annually. I think the cutoff date for birthday parties is probably 13 for the annual big bash. Kids will also expect a big celebration @ 16, but 14, 15, 17 can be low-key. 18 seems to be a marker of a year, usually the end of high school, the right to vote, etc. 21 is long past the kids’ party stage and into an altogether new type of partying.
So, if you have a teen who wants to have a birthday party each year…just guide him with how it is going to be…I would make one birthday cake…when it is gone it is gone…I would say we are past the “birthday presents from friends” stage, i.e. no money thank you very much…I would think 1-2 friends coming over and playing video games is fine and reasonable. Also, they could have a slumber party with a few close friends or, if it is the summer, he could choose a friend or two and go to an amusement park or something else fun and active.
In the end, it is still his birthday…letting him spend it the way he wants is great, just make sure your teen’s celebration doesn’t run your life into amok!
