With kids' birthday parties spiraling out of control in some places, I've heard of people doing "charity" parties. One example is bringing the kids to the humane society and bringing something to donate (call ahead to see what they need) instead of a gift for the birthday child. Has anyone done this or been to a party like that?

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We did this for my youngest daughter's party. Rather than bringing a gift for her, we asked that party attendees bring a book (new or used) that could be donated to our Head Start preschool program in town. We collected over 30 books as most kids brought more than 1 and my daughter & her friends were excited to look through the books at her party.

I have also heard of parties where kids brought canned food for the food bank, and hats & mittens for kids at the homeless shelter.

I love these party ideas as it is less about the gifts and more about having fun & helping others!

Carey