To register for gifts or to not register for gifts – that is the question.   For years, etiquette experts have wrestled with this modern phenomenon called Gift Registry without coming up with any definitive answers.  I think most of us can agree that registering for baby shower or bridal shower gifts is an accepted practice these days and many guests find the registry process convenient and practical.  But there is a new debate that is causing quite a stir in the party world – registering young children for birthday gifts.   Apparently, the hottest trend this season is that of parents registering at various stores so that their little darlings will receive exactly what they want for their birthday.  In a recent online survey conducted by the Parenting Squad website, 33% of the respondents indicated that they thought registering children for birthday presents was a practical idea while a whopping 68% thought it was a tacky way to ask for presents.   Personally, I am a fence-sitter on this hot topic.  While I am as busy as the next person and appreciate any time saving strategies that are offered, I can’t help but feel that simply crossing a gift off of a registry list without putting any careful thought into it somehow feels like cheating.  Not to mention that some of my fondest memories of special childhood gifts are of toys and gizmos and gadgets that I would never have dreamed of in a thousand years.  I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this controversial topic.  Oh, Miss Manners…where are you when we need you most?

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