I like the idea of this but not sure if I’d be able to do it…

No .. different if you have specifically asked them what they want and they have said they are saving for something in particular. But not just asking everyone to pop in money.

I think it could depend on the age of the child. If I know the parents fairly well I often ask for suggestions. Another suggestion is that some of the families could pool the money and buy one useful gift,

I don’t mind if my kids get cash for their birthdays. I’ve given cash as a gift myself. But I wouldn’t request that guests give cash, it’s totally up to the invited guest what they gift

we recently attended a birthday where we were asked to give money or a gift card to a certain store as the child was madly saving for a certain toy. I think it is a great idea as my children get so many meaningless toys that often go to waste after a day or two 🙁

This is a common tradition in Holland. It makes it less about gifts and more about spending time with the birthday child. Then the child can choose one present they really want. Don’t see anything wrong about this!

Sorry – just don’t throw the party in the first place – giving money is just so wrong in my old-fashioned opinion.

Sure, I’ve nothing against it and think it’s quite a good idea to prevent from the mentality of over-giving and receiving unwanted gifts.

Great idea for kids that have many items, I considered doing this for my son, but he likes opening presents up so opted out this time.

I would be very happy for my child to be invited to one of these parties.

Opening a present is much more fun and personal!

I think this is a good idea. Five dollars is extremely reasonable and takes the pressure off a lot of families with limited income. In my experience, my daughter always wanted her friends at her birthday parties and wasn’t concerned at all about the presents.

If the parent of the invited child asked what to give my child I would suggest a gift voucher to a certain shop but only if asked. Any gift is a bonus