Mom's Talk: Do You Think Children's Birthday Parties Are Over the Top?

Algonquin Patch invites you and your circle of friends to help build a community of support for mothers and their families right here in Algonquin.

Each week in Moms Talk, our Moms Council of experts and smart moms take your questions, give advice and share solutions.

Here's this week's topic:

Birthdays have become a huge deal, with parties costing hundreds of dollars and guest lists often topping 30 (or more) children. The parties can stress parents—and children—with high expectations.

Some say that too many gifts, too much money and too much "stuff" in the form of guest gift bags are examples of crass conumerism.

Others say they're only young once, and a fun party doesn't hurt anyone.

Do you feel that the birthday party scene in Algonquin has become competitive?

**Do you think children's birthday parties have gone too far?**