Comments on: A better birthday party for kids

By: Eanna Carter

Eanna Carter — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 16:08:38 +0000

We are doing the same thing at my soon to be 6 year olds birthday party. A toonie party (toonie for him) and a non-parishable food idea for the food bank. I am trying to teach my kids the importance of helping out the community. As well as, teaching them that there are alot of people out there that don’t have 1/2 of the things that we do!!

By: Tracy

Tracy — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 03:22:52 +0000

Fantastic idea Justin!! I also really love the 2, twoonie idea. Awesome!

By: Justin

Justin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:59:12 +0000

Ooooh! Love the charity idea. That might be something we try the next iteration.

Yes, this idea was based off the “toonie” idea. I think we’ll use toonies for the younger children; “Sir Laurier” seemed to be a more appropriate level for a 7 year-old (or at least a good transition amount).

I’m embarrassed to say that in the past I’ve purchased a lot of those “Happy Meals” toys for my kids. We’re cutting that out too.

By: Kathy

Kathy — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:46:15 +0000

A family in our neighbourhood has a toonie party for her kids birthdays every year. The first year they did it, the mom bought a scooter for her daughter on behalf of the friends. Then each child came with 2 toonies (and no gift). One toonie went to a charity and one went to contribute towards the group gift. As the kids arrived there were 2 boxes at the front (to collect the money for the charity and the gift). Then, at gift time, all the kids helped carry the scooter in to the birthday girl. Less gifts, less chaos, less waste, and a donation to charity. It’s a great idea.

By: Joel Stainer

Joel Stainer — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:17:55 +0000

Love the idea! We are doing a similar thing but with Toonies. We didn’t think of the creative card idea, but I think we might have to add that part in as it sounds like a ton of fun.

I am always looking for ways to reduce “stuff” in the house and in my life, so this is one great way to start.

By: Aaron

Aaron — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:16:52 +0000

This is a great idea! We have had “no gift” birthday parties, and these have been great as well. We found that it reduced the stress of the “goodie bag” as well, we have been to parties where the goodie bag that our daughter received was worth more than what we brought as a gift, which makes us feel awkward. Sir Laurier, I solute you.