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🎓 Go-To Graduation Gifts

By Christen Reiner, Macaroni Kid Lakewood-Littleton & Macaroni Kid Denver Editor and Publisher May 12, 2021

You probably know someone who's graduating this year. Although it might look a little different in 2021, it is still a time for celebration!

My oldest graduated last year, and we spent a lot of time at grad parties for his friends. Not only did my son get some super creative gifts, but I got some super creative ideas for my own grad gift list!

I've spent two years scouring the internet and putting my own spin on some great ideas.

  🎓 FOR GRADUATION PARTIES
  • Scratch and Win Card Bouquet
  • Cold, Hard Cash 
    • Money Wreath
    • Money Lei
    • Money Bouquet
    • Money Jar
    • Pizza "Dough"
    • Cash "Congratulations" (Get instructions for this DIY here!)
  • Starbucks Cards for the late study nights in college
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Uber Gift Cards
  • Amazon Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Bed, Bath and Beyond Gift Cards
  • Gas Gift Cards
  • Pizza Gift Cards
  • Adulting: How to Become a Grown-up in 468 Easy(ish) Steps by Kelly Williams Brown
  • One Cup Coffee Maker
  • Laundry Detergent and Quarters
  • Candy Bouquet or Poster
  • Movie Night
  • Office Supplies in a Jar
  • Stationery (Don't forget the stamps!)
  • Monthly Cookie or Treat Delivery
  • Tool Kit
  • Microwave Cooking Supples
  • Ramen Cookbook
  • Sticker from their Intended College
  • Travel Coffee Mug
  • Bottle Opener
  • Blank Journal
  • Lock
  • Spa Basket
  • Portable Phone Speaker
  • Pens and Pencils (Trust me.)
  • Address Book
  • Experience Passport
  • Water Bottle with Storage
  • Planner Notepads
  • Portable Phone Charger
  • Shower Caddy
  • Bucket O' Batteries
  • Toiletry Kit
  • Snack Basket
  • Gum 
  • Coupon for a Finals Care Package
  • First Aid Kit
  • Travel Journal
  • Mantra Band
  • Lunch Cooler
  • Cards Against Humanity
  • Blanket
  • Succulent Terrarium
 🎓 FOR YOUR CHILD'S HIGH SCHOOL FRIENDS

I have always made sure that my high schooler didn't go to grad parties for his friends empty-handed. Here are some inexpensive ideas that you can even buy in bulk.

  • Scratch and Win Card
    • Attach one S and W to a blank notecard
    • Write "Best of Luck in the Future!"
  • Framed Picture
  • Stress Ball
  • Lanyard with Card Holder
  • Bubble Wrap (Stress Relief Kit!)
  • Pet Rock or Pet Cloud (Cotton Ball with Googly Eyes)
 🎓 FOR YOUR OWN KID
  • GIFT CARDS!!!
  • Laptop
  • Microwave
  • Bed Linens
  • Towels
  • Watch
  • College Gear or Apparel
  • Lap Desk
  • Backpack
  • Laundry and Cleaning Supplies
  • Overnight Bag
  • Budget Notebook
  • Amazon Prime Membership
  • Netflix or Hulu
  • Luggage Set
  • Noise Canceling Headphones
  • Vehicle Emergency Kit
  • Roadside Assistance Plan
  • Amazon Echo Dot
  • Open When... Letters (Happy, Sad, Scared, Tired, Etc)
  • Bicycle (Don't forget the lock!)
  • Airline Gift Cards
  • Concert Tickets