Mi IL's just send a check every year-birthdays and Christmas. I think it would be nice for them to actually go out shopping, pick a gift, wrap it, and give it to my child. They are coming to visit this year, so in addition to shopping for my kids from DH and I and Santa, I need to buy and wrap from the IL's too. I do remember one time when my DS turned one and they came down for his party. They gave him two "experienced" toys aka thrift store. They weren't even that clean-I thought that was pretty tacky.., so I guess the checks are better, but still....DH and I do try to put a lot of thoughts in their gifts, and they are not easy to buy for at all. I think DH and I are extremely easy to buy for-just ask me what I want and I will give you a whole big list! Lol...As far as my parents go, my mom is pretty good about coordinating w/ me as far as what she is giving the kids. That helps out a lot, and she knows that the gifts will be well-received by my kids.