Guides / Kid costs
Birthday parties without the big bill
Fun parties for less, and how to handle all the classmates' parties too.
Kids remember the friends and the fun, not the price. Set a budget first and let your child help choose where it goes.
Ideas
- Home or park parties with one simple activity
- Smaller guest lists: a common rule is age plus one
- Homemade cake or cupcakes; kids love decorating them
- Skip goody bags or give one small thing
Gifts for other kids' parties
- Set a standard amount per gift
- Keep a small stash of gifts bought on sale
- Group gifts with other parents
- It's fine to decline some invitations
General educational information, not financial advice. Your Money Stretcher isn't paid by any bank, lender or company mentioned here.