Dear Prudence,
We have three kids and a strict rule on birthdays. The kids get needed items (clothes, bikes, books, etc.) and $200 for the party or a big gift. We want to teach our kids the value of money and how to budget. So the kids can get a sleepover or blow-out water park trip. My eldest saved up to get a brand new gaming system and TV, one that he doesn’t want to share with his little brothers. My husband just wants peace and I am hesitant to push either way. I am the oldest of five and have firm memories of my private property being wrecked by the younger siblings (don’t ask about my first car). I don’t want to just blindly react either. My younger boys blew their birthdays on expensive outings while my eldest really saved up for this (we refuse to buy video games for presents). Can you help?