I respect the opinions on both ends of this discussion, but I have a question for those who want to see the gifts opened at the party.

For those who feel strongly that their own gift should be opened in front of everyone because they want to see how well the gift is received, well - if we're all busy (like me) teaching my child to act as though he/she is thrilled with the gift, then does the onlooking guest really know (or need to know) whether the gift was a "hit" or not?

It is awkward, at least for me, to teach my children to act as though they are so excited about a particular gift they've opened -- yet I DO teach my children this, anyways. But I'd rather avoid this whole acting portion in front of a crowd - I always worry that my child didn't look excited ENOUGH about different gifts, and I don't want any guests' feelings to be hurt.

My children know that they are to be grateful about each gift, and as i perviously stated, we even role play this part extensively. Just when I thought my child was ready to handle opening gifts graciously and enthusiastically, I heard her tell the fifth gift giver (in all innocence) "Wow - this is the best gift of all!!!!! Thanks!!!!! (happened 2 weeks ago). I feel like we need a hour long tutorial on what to do in any situation to be fully prepared. It's a weird lesson for a parent to teach, isn't it? Am I the only one?