My daughter started kindergarten last fall, and beyond the expected academically-focused changes (beginning math! learning to read!), I’ve noticed a big social one as well: a larger class, an expanded social circle, and invitations to so many birthday parties for school friends. At first, choosing a birthday gift for my daughter to give the birthday friend of the moment stumped me a bit: I don’t yet know all of these friends terribly well, and I don’t have a sense of their likes and preferences. But through bit of trial and error, I’ve hit on what seems to be a pretty reasonable strategy for giving gifts to help celebrate these classmate birthdays.
In general, the parameters I try to work within are:
Pictured above are some go-tos of late for us: Kitpas window crayons (every kid I have ever met loves these!) and small age-appropriate card games (check out these list of team favorite coloring supplies and travel games for other ideas). We always add a homemade card and pull the gift together with homemade [recycled] wrapping paper and some colorful washi tape.
What’s your gifting strategy for school classmates? Do share any ideas that have resonated well for you or your child’s friends – I’d love some additional inspiration!
Shannon x
PS: At my daughter’s birthday last spring, a classmate gave her a gift wrapped and finished in custom ribbon that said “Happy Birthday! Love, [classmate’s name].” Such a clever idea for making sure it’s clear who the gift is from, and for helping to keep everything straight for follow-up thank you cards!
Comments (2)
We usually give a small book and putty. Or washable markers/beeswax crayons and a small sketch book.
Agree that all art items go down very well, and craft kits too, such as ‘make your own tutu’ (sew up one seam!) and older girls like dress designing. Unusual pyjamas have always been popular, board and card games. Wooden items and realistic toy animals have been much loved and things that matched the child’s current interest, such as Playmobile and space. Sending with a swapping receipt always sensible!