Birthday Gift Alternative — How About Money?

Our little guy just turned 7 and his birthday party is coming up in a few days. In an effort to keep the proverbial mountain of gifts down to the size of a molehill this year, we are trying out what we call in our neck of the woods a “toonie party”.

Each guest has been given the option of bringing three 2-dollar coins (toonies) instead of a gift. From each participant, he will put one coin in his savings account, give one coin to the charity of his choice, and spend one coin on a birthday gift for himself. (Of course this could be modified to use any currency or denomination.)

It’s been tempting to try the “no gift” route especiallly because it feels a little tacky to ask for money. But I know that I feel uncomfortable showing up to a party without anything in hand and hope that this is a good option for most guests. As a bonus, we think this is a chance to highlight to our boy, those two other important things to do with money besides simply spending it: saving and giving.

For other gift alternatives check out previous posts An Alternative to the No Gift Birthday Party and Gifts for Kids that Don't Involve "Stuff".