We’re in a season of celebrations. As an odd school year draws to a close, many will still receive diplomas even if the ceremonies are postponed or have a different format than ever before. If you’re scratching your head for graduation gift ideas, you’re not alone.
Those passing significant milestones need celebrated perhaps now more than ever. If you’re looking for ideas for seniors in high school or college, eighth graders, or fifth graders, these tips might help you mark the occasion even if you don’t have much cash or are confined by unique circumstances.
I have a high school senior and I’m doing my best to help her feel special even in the midst of COVID crazy. I long to have her achievements to overshadow the world pandemic and honor her accomplishments in unique ways.
A Collection of Letters
Reach out to significant people in your graduate’s life and ask them to write a simple letter. Think through favorite teachers, friends, coaches – anyone who has played a special role in their life. Even if they can send an email for you to print out, gather these notes and envelopes into a nice box or folder for the graduate to keep.
You may want to give the letter writers some specific ideas to guide their process. Sometimes it’s difficult to know where to begin. Focus on a special memory. Or have them write dreams and wishes for the grad’s future. Perhaps they could write about character traits they admire about your graduate.
A Collection of Books
When our oldest daughter turned 16, we asked if 10-15 people she admired would consider giving a gift for her birthday – a book. This made great sense because she loves to read. But rather than the latest thriller or YA read, we asked this special group to give a book they felt changed their life.
Some gave an original copy and others purchased a brand new edition. Believe it or not, no one chose the same book. It’s been fun to see her read through that collection over the years. This is a great idea for graduates, too. It’s a delight to see the wide array of books that people choose.
Purchase Cards in Bulk
If you need to give to multiple graduates like we do this year, it’s a good idea to purchase cards in bulk rather than buying them individually. My favorite cards are made by my friend and local artist Tricia at Garrett Hand Lettering on Etsy. You can get 5 unique handmade cards for $12. You can also find others on Amazon (54 cards for $26.99) and Dayspring (12 for $5.99). Calculate the price per unit. And don’t forget to jot down a list of graduates you plan to send cards to so you purchase enough.
You could also make your own cards using free printables or plain stationery. On Queen of Free, you’ll find a printable care package postcard you can give to a graduate to return to you at a future date. Simply print it out on cardstock and apply enough postage (it’s oversized so it will need more than one stamp) so it’s ready to mail.
This easy gift idea helps you spread out the cost of multiple gifts over months. Graduates fill in the blanks with their favorite snacks and school supplies. You purchase those items and send them during the next academic year.
Purchase Gifts in Bulk
You may also want to buy some gifts in bulk, too. From necklaces to mugs to journals to books, this is a great idea. Because even if you don’t end up using all of the items up this year, you can use them for future graduates. The same goes for any bulk card purchases. Future you will thank you when you already have items on hand to give away. And by the way, if you’re like me and have done this in years past, be sure to check and see what you already have before you buy anything new. Typically, I find items like these on Amazon or Dayspring, too. You could also check a place like Old Time Pottery for affordable mugs, too.
For many, it’s a difficult season financially and emotionally. You don’t have to write a large check or purchase a pricey gift. More than anything, simply show up for your favorite graduate. Send a text. Tell them you’re proud. Recognize the struggle of their current circumstances. The simplest words and gestures have always made the biggest difference. And somehow the simplest of sentiments stick with us all.
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