Is it generally accepted that children bring their teachers gifts these days? Up to what age?

I was surprised that my two year old nephew was expected to bring in his nursery staff little Christmas presents. My brother (who is several years older than his wife) wouldn't have brought the presents in if he was responsible for taking their son to nursery that week. But for his wife it's the most natural thing in the world.

This seems very strange to me, but is it normal now?