My daughter's gymnastics coach asks the team not to buy her gifts at Christmas. She prefers they make her something small, such as an ornament for her tree, sign it and add their competition levels, the date and a promise to her-something they'll work on during the year.
She started this one year after a similar gift from a girl encouraged her to keep coaching when she was ready to quit. She has cherished these gifts since.
If you're looking for other gift ideas, let me say it need not be anything expensive. Look for something that expresses your gratitude for the time the leader puts into your child.
Gift Cards / Gift Certificates
I know gift cards don't seem very personal, and a department store card isn't, but the right card can be greatly appreciated. Consider:
- A Local Restaurant: Someplace upscale the coach and a significant other can escape together. If your child is a teen, perhaps offer babysitting if necessary. Someplace mid-line that she can take the whole family rather than put dinner on the table after a particularly busy day.
- A Day Spa: A little alone time in a peaceful, quiet environment -- while being pampered -- is the perfect way to relax, and anyone who works with kids can use and appreciate it!
- A Favorite Boutique or Shop: If you know she has a favorite little place to shop but is reluctant to treat herself there, she might enjoy the splurge.
Something Related to the Club or Sport
If the adult is working in a particular area, you can bet he's interested in it. Pick up a little memento related to the activity such as:
- A Ball Cap or T-Shirt: Know his favorite team? Find one with his favorite team's logo. Or go for one with the club logo.
- A Team/Club Memento Signed by the Kids: Pick up a baseball, club tote bag, or similar and have the kids sign it in water-proof markers. Include the date and other pertinent details. He'll remember his time with the kids whenever he looks at it.
- A Book / Journal about the activity: A little looking and you can turn up gorgeous books on the history of Scouts, various sports, and many other clubs. A leader who believes in his organization will really appreciate the nostalgia.
Gourmet Goodies
Who doesn't like a yummy treat at holiday time? Besides a nice personal treat, it will help ease the load when she's entertaining during the holidays. If you know or suspect she has some dietary concerns, be careful. A lot of places specialize in unique edible goodies. Some to consider:
- Candy Bouquet: Instead of flowers, bouquets made of candy. Beautiful and delicious.
- Popcorn Factory: Decorator tins of popcorn in 18 flavors, plus other goodies to choose from like pretzels, peanuts and chocolates.
- Edible Arrangements: Fresh fruit cut into eye-pleasing shapes, optionally dipped in chocolate (is chocolate ever optional?) and arranged in beautiful containers.
Homemade Goodies
Rather do your own baking? Homemade treats are always appreciated. The recipient knows you've put your own time, energy and love into making them. Again, be careful about dietary concerns. Otherwise, the choices here are endless. Try:
- Liqueurs:
- Candies
- Desserts and Pastries
- Breads
- and more
Handmade Gifts
Got a talent or skill? The time and energy you put into creating something special is always appreciated. The possibilities are numerous. Think about:
- Knitting or Crocheting: Stick with small items and pick a favorite color if you know it. Some to try:
- Crochet Cell Phone Bag
- Crochet Laces Face Cloth
- Knit Wash Cloth and Dish Cloth Patterns
- Knit Cabled Napkin Rings
- Sewing: Follow a trend, make a purse from an old pair of jeans. Embellish a simple top or even a canvas tote. Make potholders, trivets, or other small items for the home.
- Jewelry Making: A quick pair of seasonal earrings are wonderful. Or a charm bracelet with charms that represent the club or activity.
- Woodworking: Try a small box for keepsakes.