Anonymous wrote:

Jkirsh64 wrote:Do a book exchange in lieu of gifts. Ask each guest to bring a gently used book to exchange with the group (and you should provide a few extra books).

No don’t.

Why not?

Is this your idea or your kid's idea?

Anonymous wrote:It's inappropriate to mention gifts AT ALL on invitations. So if people ask what your son likes or wants, THEN you can say "He could use some new books, but of course the best gift would just be your presence".

It's not inappropriate in this day and age for a casual kids' birthday party to suggest "no gifts." Sorry, it's not. My children want to invite their entire class to their parties and we don't want to exclude anyone. Their school is title 1 and has a wide range of income. The "no gift" parties are a way to be inclusive. Save your ire for people who put registry information on their wedding invitations.

Anonymous wrote:No. Say nothing and if a parent asks suggest books. Buy your kids less stuff.

This is what my mom friends do, and I am happy to comply.