5 Gift Ideas for Your Classroom or Work Gift Exchange

Classroom or workplace gift exchanges can be a lot of fun to unwind and connect with your peers, but also tricky to navigate. There is a fine balance between a thoughtful gift and one that is too personal, a gift that is useful and not boring, and a budget-friendly gift that isn’t cheap. While you want your gift to stand out, you don’t want it to be for a negative reason.

Fortunately, there are many options available that can help you navigate this situation that fits your workplace or classroom culture, whether you are buying for one specific person or for a gift exchange.

Technology

Technology can be an ideal gift since these items can serve a dual purpose for both work and pleasure. Some universally practical gifts could include:

• Headphones
• Wireless Phone Charger
• USB Cup Warmer

Finding a playful design can be a great conversation starter while being genuinely useful. For example, a cup warmer with a cute, personalized mug can open conversations about hobbies or personal interests.

If you want to be less practical, a blast from the past can be a great way to evoke warm memories and spark conversations. A tabletop Pac-Man game, a Tamagotchi, a disposable camera, a digital frame or a set of classic movies on DVD can be enjoyable for classmates or coworkers across multiple generations. 

Office Oriented

Office or study spaces aren’t known for being the most comfortable, partially because they are designed for a more practical purpose. You can make these desks more comfortable for those long work sessions with a back or foot cushion. A portable option may be the most convenient, especially if there aren’t assigned desks or if you are moving from classroom to classroom.

A portable desk organizer can be helpful, especially when frequently on the go. Not only does it declutter space, but it can also boost productivity since you aren’t wasting time looking for items.

A waterproof notebook or notebook cover is also a great option, even if you don’t spend much time outdoors. You never know when there’s an unexpected storm or if there will be an accidental beverage spill.

Snacks

Food is never a bad option, especially when it offers something unique or indulgent! Just ensure there aren’t any life-threatening food allergies before you bring something in. If you know that there is a popular food item, you could buy that, such as a specific brand of coffee. However, it may be fun for something more unique, such as a coffee, chocolate or tea sampler box.

If you like the idea of trying new flavors, you may consider putting together an international food collection. You could include spices, snacks, beverages or canned items that may be unfamiliar or unique. You can include food from one culture or a whole variety. This can also be a great way to include conversation and sharing among your peers!

If you know that someone has allergies or is on a diet, opt for a healthier option like a fruit-infused water bottle that can be paired with dried fruits or nuts.

Practical

When in doubt, sometimes the best gifts are the most practical. Having a reusable lunchbox or tote bag not only makes an environmental impact but is also very useful to have readily accessible. They can be used for an ordinary grocery run or for hauling materials to and from work or class.

While most people have blankets at home, a small emergency blanket for the car or to tuck into a small space can be a lifesaver on cold days. You can purchase a blanket that converts into a bag, or that is reflective for any emergencies.

It is not as fun, but an emergency kit is always useful. Most people don’t realize that they don’t have these kits until it is too late; you can never be too prepared. You can make a first aid kit fun by putting it in a custom case or including “fun” items like character bandages, candy and stickers. Just because it is for a serious purpose doesn’t mean that it can’t be a personalized gift.

Gift Cards

When in doubt, a gift card can be the easiest and most practical gift. If you want to be ultra practical, a gift card for a chain retailer can be used at multiple locations and/or for a variety of useful items. However, if you want to be more whimsical, there are fun gift card ideas that are still useful.

With the rise of streaming services, you could purchase a gift card for a subscription service like Hulu, Netflix or a niche streaming service. This can be a great gift for someone with a family, or if someone has expressed interest in a particular show.

You can also purchase a gift card from a local business like a bookstore, hobby shop or grocery store. If there is a restaurant near campus or work, this may also be a great gift for a weekday when there isn’t time to prepare a meal. Not only does this help the community, but it can be a fun way to explore without leaving the area. In a similar vein, you can also buy tickets or a gift card for a local tourist destination or activity, such as fair tickets, a museum or a concert/sports venue. While it still supports your community, it can be a rare treat for someone who doesn’t normally have the chance to attend these events.

If you don’t want to bring a gift card on its own to your gift exchange, you can hide the card in a creative vessel like a puzzle box or pair it with a small gag gift.

Remember that the goal of these gift exchanges is to build positive relationships and show appreciation for colleagues. A thoughtful and well-chosen present can strengthen your community bonds while spreading holiday cheer.