Inexpensive and meaningful gifts for paratroopers and classroom support staff… every year I see a lot of posts on social media about what to get teaching assistants for the holidays.
Paraprofessionals are not paid well enough and we want them to feel appreciated. Buying any gift is not really in the cards… no one wants an unhealthy gift.
So what do you get skydivers and classroom teachers that they will actually want and enjoy? We asked other teachers what they thought, and the winning ideas are below. If there’s something you think should be on the list, let us know and we’ll add it!
The best gifts for skydivers and paratroopers
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Handwritten thank you note
Those are ALWAYS appreciated!
Echo Dot
The Echo Dot is a lot cheaper than you might think, and it’s a fun addition to their home!
Baked goodies
Things like Chex mix, caramels, homemade hot cocoa mix, and cookie buckets are always fun and delicious.
Wrist wallets and key chains
Keychains and wristbands and wallets are always needed. They are a practical and fashionable gift!
Gift sets from Bath and Body Works
Bath and Body Works is known for its holiday scents. If this is something your partner likes, consider grabbing a gift set for her from there.
Gift vouchers to their favorite places
Where does your sibling like to shop? Find out and get a gift card from here!
Candles
Candles, especially holiday-scented ones, are ideal as a gift.
Special, customized mugs
Get a mug with your partner’s name or a favorite saying you both have in class.
Custom made teaching t-shirt
A fun tutorial t-shirt is a great way to recognize your para for all that they do.
Alex and Ani bracelets
Cute and delicate Alex and Ani bracelets make a nice gift.
Yeti or customized cups
Fun cups and cups make staying hydrated easy!
Coffee or breakfast
Does your partner have a favorite coffee order? Stop by to pick up her favorite java and some breakfast before school! She will feel appreciated and thought of!
Secret Santa Exchange
Do a secret Santa swap with your grade-level team, and don’t forget to include your skydiver’s name in the mix.
Blankets
A comfortable, cozy blanket is great for self-care at the end of the day and makes a perfect holiday gift.
Ornaments
Ornaments are always a fun gift! They can be serious, funny or sentimental.
Homemade gifts
If you’re crafty, make a homemade gift that shows your significant other how much she means to you.
Wines and gift vouchers
Make a basket of wine and gift cards that your sweetie will appreciate after a long semester.
Bath sets
Include bath bombs, bubble bath and loofah.
SPED Para Survival Kit
This is fun to do! Include things like hand sanitizer, tissues, a stick, lotion, pens, highlighters and chocolate – lots of chocolate!
Lottery tickets
Do you feel lucky? Hopefully your steam will be when they play the scratch cards you get!
Baggu bags
Cute bags? Yes please!
Team shirts
Paras aren’t often a part of team shirts, so make one especially for her for the holidays so she knows she’s part of the team!
Succulents, poinsettias or other plants
If your skydiver has a green thumb, a plant makes a great gift!
Mani/Pedi
Get a gift certificate to your partner’s favorite nail salon.
Self care kit
Create a basket with comfy socks, a lavender candle and a face mask.
Pyrex winter cookware set with homemade food inside
It’s a meal and a treat in one!
Dinner out
Take your para out for dinner or lunch. It’s a great time to bond and have fun.
Badge Lanyards
You can never have too many laces!
Kitchen towels
Choose ones that match the theme of your partner’s kitchen!
5 days of cheap gifts
Who doesn’t love a week of fun, little gifts?!
Bundt Cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes
Bundt cakes never tasted so good!
Handmade soaps
Shop local holiday crafts and pick up some luxurious handmade soaps.
Fun holiday socks
Get a pair of fun holiday socks that your sweetie can wear every year!
Movie Night Box
Include Movie/Redbox code, popcorn can or microwave popcorn bags.
Team lunch
Get together with all the teachers in your school and have a holiday lunch in honor of your paratroopers!
Own mailbox
Create your own clipboard for your bestie with her initials or a positive saying!
Holiday bags from thirty one
A fun and festive bag is always a great gift.
What gifts do you buy or make for your paratroopers and classroom staff for the holidays?
