[HomesweetHome]

What do you usually do for your kids' birthdays? I have found that parents here where I am are trying to outdo each other and it is just too expensive for me to do some of the stuff they are doing such as pony rides. What is a good way to handle this without my kids being jealous of other kids?

[Elle]

My sister lives on a white picket fence street in downtown suburbia. Her neighbours have parties with pony rides, jumping castles and professional face painters. Needless to say- the kids loved it. On the other hand we went to another party with a trampoline, a home-made pinata and fairy bread (pieces of bread with butter/sprinlkes)- the kids LOVED it!

Ultimately, I think it's all about the parent's ego as opposed to what the kids want. Just think about what your child really enjoys, even if it's just an ice-cream cake at McDonalds, because it's their day!

[JennyP]

I agree with Elle, if you center the celebration around what your child enjoys it will be great. Some of my best birthdays were just my immediate family, but the whole day was centered around me.

[BeesWax]

I just have the grandparents and aunt, uncle and cousins over to celebrate the kids birthday's. I have cousins though, that will go all out and throw big bashes for every birthday their kids have. I don't spoil my kids in that way. Maybe when they are a bit older I will let them ask a few friends over but right now they aren't old enough for that.