DEAR MISS MANNERS: Would you be so kind to explain to me why it’s the new protocol, when invited to a child’s birthday party, that your child is expected to give the honoree’s mother a wrapped gift for giving birth 16 years ago? Now it’s two gifts that must be purchased for a birthday party — one for the mom, one for the child.

I thought the husband was expected to give the mom a piece of jewelry, privately. It’s their moment, not to be shared with 30 kids from the birthday child’s class.

Entitlement is rapidly spreading, even in this time of financial issues for many. I might just go to a thrift store, purchase a participation trophy, wrap it up for the mom and congratulate her on a job well done in giving birth to her daughter. I find this new custom rude. If a hostess gift is expected, I’ll bring chocolates, flowers or a trinket — certainly not a $75 purse!

GENTLE READER: This “new protocol,” if it is one, is ridiculous. Miss Manners had heard of the unfortunately titled “push present” for new mothers, but 16 years after the fact is absurd. Receiving it from anyone not directly involved in the birth, even more so.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.