Yes birthday is not just a celebration of life but it is also another step of learning for the kids.
When i was young, we don't celebrate birthdays with a lot of food because our parents can't afford it but still we are thankful that even they don't have a lot of money but they have a big heart to love us and teach us to be a good person.
You're right @sumatranate thats teaching kids the basic skills in life should be taught at home.
I completely agree. Thanks for sharing about your experience as a child. I am sure it was hard at times. But it sounds like your parents taught you to focus on the most important things - family and love.
Yes, food during birthday celebration is just a bonus of you were blessed in financial aspects and can afford it. But the most important gift during birthday is the good health and life that we have plus the supportive and loving family.