Birthday Party Etiquette Question

[Mimi Q]

My 3 year old is invited to one of her friend's birthday party tomorrow. The invitation says the party is for he and his two brothers. I guess I need to get three presents. Is it okay to spend more on her friend's present or should I spend the same on all three? She is not friends with the older boys as they are several years older than she is. Thanks.

 

[jx3smom]

I think it's ok to spend more on her friend. The parents may not even expect you to buy gifts for all three and it is very nice of you to do so.

 

[PaulaSue]

Honestly I would only get something for the child she knows. Maybe a card for the others celebrating?

 

[mommaU4]

My DD was invited to a b-day party once that was for the freind and her older sis. Neither myself not DD knew the older girl but I still got her a little something to open anyway just because I wasn't sure what to do. I figured better to be safe than sorry and it wasn't nearly as much as what we spent on DD's friend. I don't know if that was right or wrong but it was what I felt comfortable doing.

 

[christinadei]

I wouldn't get the brothers that she doesn't know much. Knowing me, I'd feel like I needed to give them something, but it would definately be less than the one your DD knows.

 

[Chicago526]

As long as the differance isn't hugely obvious (like a game boy game for the friend and a coloring book for the sibling) then I don't think you have to spend the same on both of them.

 

[Soccer Princess]

I also think it is fine to spend more on the kid you actually know. You could also just get them a game or movie for all of them to share.

 

[christinadei]

A game or movie is a great idea. They can all share it.

 

[Cindy's Mom]

How old are the other brothers? I realize that its easier said than done, but I would only buy for the friend. Why should you have to buy for the other two? I think their mother is trying to stock her toy box.