Sunday

Belated Birthday Bestowment

opinion 1
Am I supposed to get a birthday present even if I do not go to the birthday party? The child I nanny for has his second birthday party tomorrow and I am not going. Should I still bring him a present next week? I didn't see him this week, and I wouldn't be able to get it to him at the earliest on Wednesday.

14 comments:

Nan said...

Completely up to you! I personally would get something, just because I am big on birthdays and holidays and always try to do something a little special. Don't feel obligated, but maybe just a little something to show you were thinking of him on his birthday!

Ocean Blue said...

It's totally up to you. I like to give gifts so I"d give a small gift next time you see it.

Princessbluekies said...

Personally I would.You could get him something as little as a special birthday cupcake. However, I agreed with what they said it is completely up to you.

Mandy98824 said...

YES!

Wendi said...

You could if you feel like it, but OP by no means is this mandatory. I usually do not give my charges birthday gifts unless I am invited to their birthday parties.

I usually only give gifts when I am leaving positions...kind of like good-bye gifts.

Hope this helps. ☺

Manhattan Nanny said...

I always give my charges birthday gifts. I usually get something we can do together, a craft kit, puzzle or book. If you aren't going to see him and feel awkward giving a late gift, send a card with some stickers. Kids love to get mail.

OP said...

I was invited, just wasn't able to make it. Partly because I knew the party itself would be awkward.

MissMannah said...

I would, because I love birthdays and I always like making them special for my charges. But don't feel obligated to do so, I'm sure the parents aren't expecting it. Curious, why do you think the birthday party would be awkward? I think they are always fun.

Mrs. Billy Lamar said...

OP: You probably think the parties would be awkward because you wouldn't know anyone. I have been invited to my charge's parties and always feel like I stick out like a sore thumb. There is family all around and it seems everyone knows each other. I just sit by myself and try to smile, but honestly, I don't know a soul.

OP said...

Exactly. I would only know the kids and their parents, while there would be tons of other people there that know each other that I have never met before. And I am a shy person anyway

Bostonnanny said...

I spoil my charges rotten on their birthday! I buy them either a huge gift or a bunch of small gifts, take them out to a special activity, let them pick out a birthday balloon and cupcake. I know that their parties can be awkward but I always make it a point to stop by for at least an hour. It's hard to mingle but i feel like its part of the job. I do it for the children but also to show my commitment to the family. It's normally the only event that I feel it's necessary to attend plus who wouldn't want to see their charge in a birthday hat stuffing their tiny faces with cake :)

oh well said...

If you were invited, I think it would be good for you to give him a gift. It does not have to be expensive, but the parents will appreciate the thought.

Lauren said...

I'm surprised to hear that not all nannies would give their charges a birthday present. I don't give to the parents, partly because it's just too much...

but I always give my kiddos birthday presents.

Leah said...

Ummm...absolutely! I couldn't imagine not giving one of my charges a gift for their bday (whether I was going to the party or not). It's a tax write-off anyway (business related expense)!