Gift Etiquette?

Ugh. That's just annoying. I'd probably just buy some stationary/glittery pens.

Or a nice Christmas tree ornament?

Jen, my DD is sticker crazy at the minute, I could buy her three big packs of them for $5 and she would have a cow! LOL
I tend to not give other people's kids toys anyway, so my first thoughts don't go to buy toys as such - I buy stationery, books, costume or dress ups.

I like the idea of a Christmas tree ornament, that's nice.

Stickers is a good idea - if everyone bought stickers I bet the school would think twice next year *evil giggle*

Jennifer I'm the mum in my (new) mothers group that suggested a $5 gift, I got in first before someone else suggested a ridiculous amount like $50 in my old MG! I think when it's $5 it's a gesture not a case of make sure you spend every dollar of that $5. It could be a home made gift if a family can't spare the extra $5 and no one would care or get petty about money not being spent in a store. I think $5 is a great idea personally and there are loads of things that can be given as a gift to a child for that amount. I will be giving a book or craft things. I'd be more annoyed if the $ amount was larger. We don't even by each other gifts at Christmas so if I'm going to spend money I'd rather buy my ds something he will love rather than wing it on a gift for someone else.

We have done $5 gifts for school for ages. Often we get a beautiful ornament for their tree. A second hand book. A trinket from a market. I actually think $5 is good because you think outside the square. DD got a beautiful hand made journal last year at the market for $5. No you probably won't get anything except lollies or junk toys from any major store. But hand made gifts are awesome too.