There is an important difference between a kid spending money on a toy versus spending it on a person.

Would you tell us what is that important difference? Just for those of us who can't read your thoughts yet.

I think the implication is that if a kid buys a toy they will have something tangible that they can play and interact with, but tipping/donating to a streamer doesn't provide that.

I had football jerseys with my favorite player's name on them growing up and I'd look up to my birthday to see if I got one or I had to wait another year. This seems like an arbitrary decision. I don't see any difference in buying a jersey of my favorite player or a kid now getting a t-shirt merch of their favorite youtuber.

I'm not talking about toys, though I'd argue they're much the same.

I'm talking backpacks, lunch boxes, t-shirts, hats, etc. You know, merch.