I must be really cheap as well. i don't give anything to the bus driver or the teacher, or any other profession, with the exception of tipping waiters/waitresses. It has absolutely nothing to do with my impression of how good a job they do, or my opinion of whether or not they are deserving. I just choose to give my $$ to those without. While I am very greatful for the contribution that these people give to my family and to society as a whole, I just have given my $$ to charitable organizations instead. now, i'm wondering if i should change the way i allocate it. do you think that the kids whose families give gifts, etc., are treated differently than kids who don't? I don't want to offend any of you that give gifts, i'm just wondering if i should be doing so as well. i'm really torn about this. I don't want my children to be penalized in some way for not giving a gift, but I also think that if we start giving teacher/bus driver gifts, then the money would have to come from somewhere, and that might mean decreasing our charitable giving. this makes me feel sad.