When it comes to giving money as a gift for a 6 year old’s birthday, there are a few factors to consider before deciding on an amount. The child’s maturity level, family economic status, and values around money are all important in determining what is an appropriate monetary gift.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to how much money to give a 6 year old for their birthday:
- $20-50 is a common range for family members
- $10-20 is typical for friends of the 6 year old
- Consider matching the amount to the child’s age, so $6 for a 6th birthday
- Gift cards are a good option in place of cash
- Money towards a larger gift the child wants is another idea
Consider the Child’s Maturity and Money Values
At age 6, a child is starting to understand the value of money, but their level of maturity around spending and saving is still developing. Some 6 year olds are very responsible and understand the importance of saving, while others want to spend money right away on small purchases. Consider the child’s habits and values when deciding how much cash to gift.
If the child tends to save any money they get, a slightly higher amount like $30-50 could be put towards a future purchase. For children still learning about money management, a smaller amount like $10-20 is more appropriate so they can enjoy spending without going overboard.
Family Economic Background
The family’s economic status is another factor in deciding dollar amounts. Lower income families may view $20 as a generous gift, while affluent families may see $100 as more standard. The cost of living and what is considered average spending money for a child in that particular family should be taken into account.
Here are some guidelines based on income level:
- Lower income family – $10-30 is a generous but appropriate amount
- Middle income family – $20-50 is common
- Higher income family – $50-100 is typical
Group Gift Giving
For birthday parties with a group of the child’s friends attending, it’s typical for each guest to give a smaller cash gift like $5-20. The amount expected often depends on the family’s economic status. For lower income families, $5-10 may be plenty, while higher income families may expect $10-20 from party guests.
Some parents set up group gift funds online where guests can contribute any amount toward a larger gift the child wants. This allows coordination of giving to ensure the amounts add up to something meaningful for the child.
Non-Cash Gift Ideas
While cash is common for a 6 year old’s birthday, there are other creative non-cash gift ideas to consider:
- Gift card – Let them pick out a toy or book
- Movie tickets – For a fun day out
- Art supplies – Crafts and DIY kits
- Magazine subscription – Highlights, National Geographic Kids
- Lessons – Swimming, dance, gymnastics
Gift cards are a great option in place of cash. Choose their favorite store or restaurant and let them have the experience of picking something out. Gift cards also work well for group gifts instead of cash.
Experiential Gifts
At age 6, kids often start enjoying more experiences as gifts rather than just toys. Here are some experiential gift ideas to consider:
- Tickets to a sports game, play, or concert
- Membership or day pass to children’s museum, zoo, aquarium
- Gift certificate for baking class, art class, gymnastics, etc.
- Supplies and certificate for at-home spa day – nail polish, loofah, bath bombs
Look for experiences the child is interested in and make a gift package focused on that. Educational and creative experiences are great at this age.
Contribute Toward a Larger Gift
For closer family members, consider putting the cash towards a bigger gift the child really wants. At age 6, kids often have their eye on more expensive items like video games, tablets, bikes, or other big toys. Even $20-50 contributed toward the purchase can make the item more attainable.
Some ideas for larger gifts that family can contribute to include:
- Tablet
- Video game system
- Smart watch
- Electric scooter
- Bicycle
- High-end arts & crafts kit
- Outdoor playset
Make sure to coordinate with the parents so you don’t accidentally buy the big gift outright. But contributing funds toward the high ticket item can make a very meaningful gift.
Savings Contributions
For family members looking to make an impact, consider contributing to the child’s savings account. At age 6, they are starting to understand saving money for future goals. Some options include:
- Piggy bank with $20-50 to start saving
- $50 into a savings account
- $100 start of an education fund
Gifting with the child’s financial future in mind is a great idea. Even small contributions now can teach important lessons about saving and make a difference years down the road.
Amounts to Avoid
While the common range for a 6 year old’s birthday is around $20-100, there are some amounts that should be avoided:
- Under $5 – Too small to be meaningful
- Over $100 cash – Too much for a young child to manage
- $500+ – Excessive and unrealistic
Keep the amounts reasonable and appropriate for their age. The gift should feel special but not over the top.
Age Appropriate Options
| Age | Amount | Gift Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | $5-20 | Sock money, savings contribution |
| 2-3 years | $10-30 | Stuffed animal, toy |
| 4-5 years | $20-50 | Lego set, board game |
| 6-7 years | $20-100 | Gift card, bicycle |
| 8-10 years | $30-150 | Sports equipment, electronics |
| 11-12 years | $50-200 | Shopping spree, concert tickets |
| 13+ years | $100-500 | Phone, designer item |
As kids get older, it’s typical to give more cash and more freedom in how they can spend it. But at age 6, keeping to $20-100 is recommended.
Non-Cash Gift Alternatives
While the focus is often on how much cash to give, there are also great non-cash gift ideas that 6 year olds appreciate. Some options include:
- Art supplies – coloring books, crayons, markers
- Building toys – Lego, blocks
- Puzzles and games
- Kids tablets, electronics
- Indoor playsets – kitchen, workshop
- Outdoor toys – sidewalk chalk, bubbles, kites
- Clothing – fun graphic tees, hoodies
- Movie night gift basket – PJs, candy, popcorn
Pick items the child is interested in and tailor the gift to their unique personality for a thoughtful approach.
Gift Cards as an Easy Option
At age 6, kids are starting to develop interests and hobbies, but their tastes are still evolving. One easy option is to get them a gift card to pick out their own item. Some good gift card ideas include:
- Toy stores – Target, Walmart
- Craft stores – Michaels, Joann Fabrics
- Book stores – Barnes & Noble
- Clothing stores – Old Navy, Gap Kids
- Entertainment – Movie theater, arcade
- Experiences – Museum, zoo, mini golf
A gift card for $25-50 lets them browse and select a gift tailored exactly to their current interests. At this age, choice is exciting!
Asking Parents for Guidance
When in doubt, ask the parents for guidance. They will have insight on:
- How mature their child is around money
- What gifts their child would truly appreciate
- If they are planning to buy a large item and could use contributions
- What experiences or activities excite their child lately
Parents can help point you in the right direction to ensure your gift is appreciated and appropriate for the child. This is especially helpful for family friends who aren’t as familiar.
Conclusion
While giving cash seems simple, deciding how much to give a 6 year old for their birthday takes some consideration. Focus on the amount, the type of gift, the child’s maturity, and family economic factors. In the $20-100 range, cash or a related gift like a gift card is perfect for this age. Non-cash gifts like toys, games, and clothes work well too.
Tailor the amount to what seems reasonable based on income level. For a 6 year old, $20-50 is common from family, and $10-20 from party guests. Consider contributing to a larger gift the parents are planning to buy. And for family looking to make an impact, a savings contribution is a great idea.
Most importantly, make sure gifts are fun and age-appropriate. At age 6, kids still appreciate toys and experiences that let their imagination run wild. A gift card for a toy store, art supplies, building kits, kids games, and outdoor toys are all good options. The gift doesn’t need to be elaborate, just something to make the child feel special on their big day!