Rude to not get charge in temporary position a birthday gift?

[Anonymous]

I started what was supposed to be a long term position about 6 weeks ago. The family found out they are moving unexpectedly, so I have about 3 weeks left with them. The little boy (6) has a birthday coming up soon and I am torn about what to do regarding a birthday gift for him. I usually always get my charges gifts but have always been with them long term. I don't want to be rude and not get him a gift, but I also don't want to spend any money if I don't need to. Is it okay to just get him a card to acknowledge the day, or do you think a gift is necessary? It would be easier to bypass this if his birthday fell on a weekend, but it of course falls during the week. WWYD?

[Anonymous]

I'd just get a small gift, under $10

[Anonymous]

Something small, like a balloon, or special snack. But I think it's OK to not get him anything.

[Anonymous]

Make him a birthday card.

[Anonymous]

Maybe it's just me, but you're acting kind of petty. It's not the kids fault the circumstances changed and they are moving. If you were staying with them long term, you probably would buy him a present, no?

[Anonymous]

You are never required to buy anyone a birthday gift. The idea that you are is ridiculous.

[Anonymous]

Take him out for an ice cream sundae or something like that. Or buy him a bag of his own fudgecicles that he doesn't have to share. Done.

[Anonymous]

Make him a card and give him something token like some stickers, a balloon, etc. and put a candle in his sanwich at lunchtime.

[Anonymous]

I would not feel obligated to buy gifts regardless of the term of employment. But I have done so depending on my relationship with the family. I would do something handmade. I love the idea of a stack of postcards with stamps already adhered for him to keep in touch with his old friends.

[Anonymous]

I would absolutely get the little boy a gift! Birthdays are a huge deal to little kids and not getting him anything could hurt his feelings. Even a balloon or cheap toy is better than nothing.

Come on, OP, show some heart!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Maybe it's just me, but you're acting kind of petty. It's not the kids fault the circumstances changed and they are moving. If you were staying with them long term, you probably would buy him a present, no?

Stop trolling. Have you thought that perhaps money is tight and she doesn't have a job lined up. 10.00 can be a bit to someone who is trying to save money for when she won't have a job. I would get him a small gift but the nonnie probably is not being petty.

[Anonymous]

You never have to get your charges a presents. That said, birthdays are a big deal to little kids and this one is old enough to know it's his birthday. Anything you could do to make his birthday special would be nice (bring him a card and a balloon? Take him for ice cream? Bake and decorate cupcakes together?). Doesn't have to cost a lot, or even any, money.

[Anonymous]

For a six year old b'days are a big deal. I would do something to acknowledge it, though it doesn't have to be a gift. YOu could have a special fun day where you have an adventure together or something.

[Anonymous]

I think you'd be wasting your money on a card for a six year old boy - they don't give a shit about cards. Get him a package of balloons - that'll cost less than $5 and he'll love it.

[Anonymous]

You can do whatever you want for him, but since this job is very short-term OP, they probably do not expect anything from you.

If you do give him something, I would make it small.