Parents send toy versions when gifts are late, but people worry it plays into the 'buy more' culture

On Reddit, a user described how their parents send toy versions when a birthday gift is delayed, prompting mixed reactions. Some find the gesture charming, while others criticize the extra plastic and clutter. The discussion on r/Anticonsumption highlights how delayed gifts can trigger pressure to spend and complicate gift-giving rituals.

Several commenters proposed lower-waste alternatives, such as printing a photo of the item, clipping an ad, or writing a gift card with a tracking number. The discussion framed anti-consumption as reducing both waste and the emotional load of gift-giving, urging holders to donate unwanted placeholders or reuse them creatively. Practical tips included toy libraries and drives to extend value.