Family Fun & Activities

[KarrieT]

My son is about to have a birthday and we're planning a party to celebrate with family and friends. My son is very blessed and has a LOT of toys and things already - we definitely do not need more of them around the house! My family and friends are so generous, but we'd prefer they not bring more toys for my son. I've heard of birthday parties where the hosts ask guests to bring gifts to donate to charity. Has anyone tried this? I'd love to hear more about options like this that have worked for others.

[ToyaC333]

This blog - Mom it Forward - has some great ideas for alternative gift giving at children's birthday parties. A few of my favorites from the post:

• Host a book exchange. Guests bring a wrapped gift and everyone takes one home.
• Request art supplies and donate them to a shelter.
• Contact a charity that is a favorite and ask for a Wish List, i.e. a list of stuff the organization really needs. 

[Dasia75]

My little niece loves animals, so for one of her parties, my sister threw an animal themed party where the kids did arts and crafts that would benefit the local animal shelter. They made pet toys baked dog treats (check with your nearby shelter to make sure they accept donations like this). My sister also asked that instead of gifts, people considered making donations to the shelter.