Elementary school is such an exciting time to be a kid – and it’s also a great age to shop for if you’re an adult looking for fun presents for your son or daughter, niece, nephew, neighbor, or grandchild. At this age, children are curious, enthusiastic, and eager to explore the world around them.
Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just to celebrate their achievements, finding a gift that’s both fun and educational can be a real winner. Luckily, you don’t have to be a creative whiz yourself to come up with fantastic gift ideas. Here’s a list of 10 thoughtful, engaging, and practical gift ideas that are sure to put a smile on any elementary student’s face!
1. Interactive Learning Toys
Interactive learning toys are perfect for sparking curiosity and making learning fun. Think along the lines of STEM kits, educational robots, or interactive globes. Brands like Osmo, LEGO Education, and National Geographic offer a variety of engaging options.
Children will love interactive learning toys because they transform education into a hands-on adventure. These toys encourage exploration and critical thinking, turning abstract concepts into tangible, engaging experiences. For instance, educational robots teach coding through play, while interactive globes bring geography lessons to life.
The blend of fun and learning helps children develop a positive attitude toward education, fostering a lifelong love for discovery and knowledge. With a plethora of options available, you can find something that aligns perfectly with their interests, ensuring they remain engaged and motivated.
2. Art Supplies and Craft Kits
For the budding artist, a set of high-quality art supplies or a fun craft kit can be a dream come true. Look for items like watercolor sets, clay modeling kits, or DIY craft projects. Brands like Crayola, Melissa & Doug, and Klutz offer fantastic options.
Art supplies and craft kits provide a wonderful outlet for creative expression. Children can explore their imagination and bring their ideas to life with a wide array of materials and tools. Craft projects offer a sense of accomplishment and pride, while also developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The endless possibilities for creating unique pieces of art keep children entertained for hours, and the joy of seeing their finished masterpieces fosters a sense of achievement and boosts their self-esteem. Whether they’re painting, sculpting, or crafting, these gifts encourage creativity and provide a fulfilling, hands-on experience.
3. Personalized Books
Personalized books where the child is the star of the story can make reading even more magical. Websites like Wonderbly and I See Me! offer customizable books that incorporate the child’s name and likeness into the storyline.
Personalized books are a wonderful way to make reading a special and personal experience. Seeing their own name in print and becoming the hero of their own story can be incredibly exciting for young readers. This personal touch makes them feel unique and valued, fostering a love for books and reading. The engaging stories captivate their imagination, making reading an enjoyable and immersive activity. Additionally, these books become cherished keepsakes, treasured for years to come, as they remind children of their special place in the world and the adventures they’ve embarked upon through the pages of a book.
4. Outdoor Adventure Gear
Encourage a love for the great outdoors with gifts like binoculars, bug-catching kits, or a beginner’s gardening set. Brands like National Geographic, Thames & Kosmos, and Green Toys offer durable and educational outdoor gear.
Outdoor adventure gear promotes exploration and a love for nature. Children will enjoy the thrill of discovering the world around them, whether they’re spotting birds with binoculars, catching bugs, or planting their first garden. These activities teach them about science and the environment in a hands-on, engaging way. Spending time outdoors also encourages physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. The joy of exploring their surroundings, coupled with the educational benefits, makes these gifts both fun and beneficial. They inspire curiosity, foster a connection with nature, and provide endless opportunities for adventure and learning.
5. Building Sets and Construction Toys
Building sets like LEGO, Magna-Tiles, or K’NEX are perfect for developing spatial awareness, problem-solving skills, and creativity. These toys provide hours of fun as kids build, create, and imagine.
Building sets and construction toys allow children to bring their imaginations to life. They can create anything they dream up, from intricate structures to imaginative worlds. These toys enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as children manipulate the pieces to build their creations. The process of constructing and problem-solving fosters critical thinking and spatial awareness. The sense of accomplishment they feel when completing a project boosts their confidence and encourages them to take on new challenges. Whether constructing a spaceship or designing a castle, these toys offer limitless possibilities and hours of imaginative play.
6. Science Kits and Experiments
For the young scientist, science kits and experiment sets can be incredibly exciting. Look for chemistry sets, microscope kits, or crystal-growing experiments. Brands like Thames & Kosmos, Learning Resources, and Smithsonian offer a wide range of science kits.
Science kits and experiment sets turn learning into a thrilling adventure. Children will love the hands-on activities that allow them to conduct experiments and explore scientific concepts. Watching a chemical reaction create a bubbling volcano or examining tiny organisms through a microscope can ignite a passion for science and discovery. These kits encourage curiosity and a love for experimentation, teaching children to ask questions and explore the world around them. The engaging and educational nature of these gifts makes science fun and accessible, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of scientific principles.
7. Board Games and Puzzles
Classic board games and challenging puzzles are perfect for family game nights and quiet afternoons. Look for games that are age-appropriate and encourage strategic thinking, cooperation, and problem-solving.
Board games and puzzles offer a perfect blend of fun and learning. Family game nights foster bonding and create lasting memories, while also teaching children valuable social skills like cooperation and teamwork. Puzzles and strategic games enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, as children work through challenges and develop strategies. The sense of accomplishment they feel upon completing a puzzle or winning a game boosts their confidence and encourages perseverance. These activities provide entertainment and mental stimulation, making them a great choice for both playtime and educational enrichment.
8. Musical Instruments
Inspire a love for music with beginner-friendly musical instruments like a keyboard, ukulele, or drum set. Brands like Yamaha, Kala, and Hape offer high-quality instruments designed for young musicians.
Musical instruments open up a world of creativity and expression. Playing an instrument enhances coordination and fine motor skills, while also providing a fun and engaging way to learn about music. Children can explore different sounds and rhythms, developing their musical abilities and creativity. The joy of creating music, whether strumming a ukulele or playing a melody on a keyboard or even learning to play guitar, can be incredibly fulfilling.
Music also offers emotional and cognitive benefits, helping children to relax, focus, and express themselves. These instruments provide a wonderful introduction to the world of music, fostering a lifelong appreciation for this art form.
9. Reading Nook Essentials
Buy a Barnes & Noble gift card
Create a cozy reading nook with items like a comfortable bean bag chair, a reading light, and a collection of age-appropriate books. Brands like Big Joe, Lumie, and Scholastic offer everything you need to set up a perfect reading corner.
A dedicated reading nook transforms reading into a beloved pastime. The cozy space, complete with soft pillows and a bean bag chair, invites children to curl up with a good book. A reading light ensures they can read comfortably at any time of day. Age-appropriate books captivate their imagination and foster a love for reading. This special corner becomes a sanctuary where they can escape into the pages of a book, explore new worlds, and let their imagination run wild. The inviting atmosphere makes reading a fun and enjoyable activity, encouraging children to spend more time with their favorite stories.
10. Sports Equipment
Encourage physical activity with sports equipment tailored to their favorite sports. Whether it’s a soccer ball, a basketball hoop, or a set of roller skates, brands like Spalding, Franklin Sports, and Razor have you covered.
Sports equipment promotes a healthy, active lifestyle. Playing sports helps children develop coordination, teamwork, and athletic skills. The excitement of scoring a goal with a new soccer ball or practicing slam dunks with a basketball hoop provides endless entertainment and exercise. Roller skates offer a fun way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Encouraging physical activity helps children develop healthy habits and a love for sports. Whether playing solo or with friends, sports equipment provides hours of fun and physical fitness, making it a fantastic gift choice.
That’s it on our list of gift ideas for elementary students.
Choosing the perfect gift for an elementary student doesn’t have to be daunting. By considering their interests and developmental needs, you can find something that’s not only fun but also enriching and educational. From interactive learning toys and art supplies to outdoor gear and musical instruments, these gift ideas are sure to make their school year extra special.
Remember, the best gifts come from the heart. It’s the thought and care you put into choosing them that truly matters. Whether it’s something to spark their creativity, encourage physical activity, or foster a love for reading, your gift will show how much you care.
Happy gifting!
This article originally appeared on Giftya.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
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10 Fem-Foward Gifts Perfect for a First-Time College Student
College is a crazy time in anyone’s life, particularly when they’re going away to school for the first time. Girls preparing to move into their freshman dorms are also preparing to move out – which means, in addition to your back to school basics, she’ll also need luggage, new bedding for that comfy cozy standard issue twin XL, and perhaps even new clothes to survive life on her new college campus. With so many options to choose from, how do you narrow down the best gift ideas for a girl going away to college?
That’s why we’ve put together this list today. From practical to sentimental, inexpensive upgrades to pricier presents, we’ll go over some of the best gift ideas we’ve come across, including:
- Gift cards that will help her throughout the semester or school year
- Sentimental photos and letters for when she’s missing her friends and family at home
- Gifs that make life on campus easier, safer, and less stressful
Eduard Figueres/istockphoto
Going away to college can be tough at first – whether she’s rooming with a random courtesy of the school’s sorting hat (er, algorithm) or her BFF from high school, she might find herself a little more choked up than she thought she’d be watching the people who raised her drive away, leaving her on her own for the first time. It’s exciting, but also college can be scary. Not to mention, expensive.
So when the snack stash that mom set her up with runs out, or she finds that she needs a professional skirt for a mid-semester presentation, make sure she can get what she needs with a gift card.
Here are some of our top gift card ideas for a girl going away to college based on the catalog:
For getting her and her groceries from point A to point B, text a DoorDash gift card to keep real groceries in her mini fridge or send a Lyft gift card so she never has to walk home when she’s studying late at the library
For putting the finishing touches on her dorm room that will make it feel like home, text a World Market gift card or buy a Wayfair gift card
For all of her tech needs this semester, send a Best Buy gift card or grab an Apple gift card
To help her get into the school spirit, text a Fanatics gift card a week or so before the big homecoming game – it’ll give her college sports apparel time to arrive before the school rivals do
For those last minute dorm living essentials, grab a Target gift card
To make sure she’s focused for those early classes, send a Dunkin’ gift card or buy a Caribou Coffee gift card
To put a dent in the assigned reading list, buy a Barnes & Noble gift card
Since she’ll be walking a lot on campus, send a Macy’s gift card or text a Famous Footwear gift card in case her old shoes start to wear out
And finally, to help her unwind and connect with her new classmates, send a Nintendo eShop gift card or grab a Cinemark gift card she can use in her downtime
Ridofranz/Istockphoto
Moving to campus is a big change! It’s inevitable that in addition to new joys and successes, there will be moments of stress and sadness as well. At home, you can give her a hug and make sure she has what she needs – whether it’s some quality time or a pep talk. And while you’re still just a phone call away, it can be nice to have a physical message in your mom or dad’s handwriting when you’re missing home most.
“Open When…” letters are simple – they’re pre-written messages designed to be opened when a particular situation comes up. There are a variety of kits available that include prompts for your messages, and the mailers above are even big enough to tuck in a gift card or a few sachets of tea, a little gag gift or some flowers from the front porch.
You can also DIY this gift with just a pen, some paper and envelopes, and a little creativity. Here are a few prompts to get you started:
- Open when… you are missing home
- Open when… you had a fight with your roommate
- Open when… you can’t fall asleep
- Open when… you finish your first big exam
- Open when… you’ve had a bad day
- Open when… you miss our faces!
- Open when… you’re feeling burned out
- Open when… the holiday decorations start going up
- Open when… you need a hug
- Open when… you’re craving a home cooked meal
- Open when… you’re feeling sick
Including letters for other holidays and occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas can be good as well, if they won’t be able to make it home for break.
Amazon
No matter how smart or self reliant she is, safety can be a big concern on college campuses. Whether she’s coming home late from the library or going out with her friends, you’ll both feel more at ease knowing she has some protection clipped to her lanyard.
Popular on social media, self defense keychains have never been so aesthetically pleasing. There are a variety of shops out there – from Etsy sellers to dedicated websites like Self Defense Keychain Store and Safety Keychains – where you can get a set of matching safety items like:
- Pepper spray or stun guns
- Air tag keychain
- Personal alarms
- Emergency lights
- Self defense knuckles
And other items, with a few cute keychains or fidget toys to round it out. You can also find sets on Amazon, or DIY this gift when you pick out individual items you think she might need.
Self Defense Keychain Store
Chances are, she’s going to be toting her essential electronics with her back and forth to class every day – so help her do it in style while protecting those expensive tech items. This monogrammed clutch from Mark and Graham is one of many options out there that can be used as a standalone item or tucked into a backpack for easy organization. It contains pockets for her phone, headphones, cards or student ID, and other chargers – and it’s big enough for her laptop and/or tablet, too.
markandgraham
Gift baskets make a great going away to college gift – with extra space, it really opens up your options to include different items. Consider packing it all in a laundry basket she can on laundry day. Some great ideas for a going away gift basket include:
- Cozy blanket or fuzzy socks for when the weather turns cold
- Mug and tea for that inevitable back to school cold
- Snacks for studying or watching movies with her roomie
- Gift cards for restaurants near campus
- Planners and notebooks to keep her organized all semester
- Boring but necessary often forgotten essentials like pencils, batteries, and toiletries
- Little electronics like a smart charger, phone charger, or charging pad
flouronmyface
Dorm walls are notoriously bland, so help her add a little personality with a wall collage kit like this one! It comes with lots of stickers, motivational notes, and quotes that she can use to create her own space.
Consider getting her a Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 camera before she shoves off. You can spend a few days making memories and taking snapshots to remind her of home while she’s at school. And be sure to stock her up on film so that she can make new memories with her college friends to add to the mix! Not only will they look great up on her wall, you’ll get to see what her semester has looked like through her eyes, too.
Amazon
Haven’t you heard? Hydro Flask is out, and Stanley is in. Or is that Stanley cups are out, and Owala is in? Whether you go with a YETI or a lululemon or another water bottle entirely, she’ll appreciate the trendy accessory to keep her hydrated during late night study sessions, long walks to class, and workouts in the campus rec center.
New York Post.
Sharing spaces means staying organized is more important than ever. Help prevent her from forgetting something back in her room when she heads off to shower or her roomie from accidentally mistaking her body wash for her own when you get her a cosmetic bag large enough for all of her toiletries.
Caddies and laundry bags make good choices too!
Vera Bradley
Whether she’s down the highway or across the country, she’ll be traveling to get back home for the first time ever. Make sure her stuff gets there safely and that there’s enough room for all that dirty laundry she’s been saving to wash at home when you get her a matching luggage set.
Calpak.
Making the grade and meeting new people are really the names of the game in college. Set her up for academic success with helpful study aids and products that will give her productivity a boost even when her brain feels like it can’t take any more information. A few little things can make a big difference, like:
- Noise canceling headphones – these turn out to be great for college students
- Electronic tools like iStudiez Pro (calendar and assignment tracker for any OS) or Notability (cloud synced notes app so she can access her notes anywhere)
- Subscription to a service like Chegg or Udemy
This article originally appeared on Giftya.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
Target.
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Featured Image Credit: jacoblund/Istockphoto.
