It’s ashame that an organization like this has to exist, but I guess it at least gives me some sense that there are a few sane people left on the planet:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070122/ap_on_re_us/bi…
I wonder why we’ve become so materialistic and competitive? Could it be the BILLIONS of dollars that are spent annually to tell us how to think?
That’s just creepy. I remember begging for the Chuck E Cheese party though :)
For the record, I barely remember any of the birthday parties I had as a kid. I know that I had them, because pictures exist – but what’s the point of making a big deal over something none of the kids will remember?
Jonathan-
Mine was Micky D’s. I wanted a party there so bad.
As the parent of three kids, I have some experience in this arena. I think a lot of the pressure comes from wanting to create a ‘special’ or ‘memorable’ experience for the kiddos. It is the definition of ‘special’ that has become skewed. There is so much wealth in America that we pour into everything including the birthday’s of our children. We (my bride and I) try so hard to teach responsibility and suppress the value of materialism. Our 6-year-old still thinks a dollar is tidy sum. She still does not get an allowance. I think parents give their children allowances because they have too hard a time saying ‘no’ at the store.
Holy cow, I am on a rant. Sorry.
that’s krazy…time for some azz whupping
Well, I think that parties should make the child feel special, but within reason. There’s a big difference between handing out a giftbag with a little candy & a rubber ball in it that probably cost 35 cents total, and arranging to have kids picked up in a limo.
I agree with you Blunt. I think it’s more about creating a positive experience for your child rather than competing from a purely financial perspective. Most of the good times my family have had over the years had nothing to do with big expensive purchases!