9 Student Gift Ideas for Back to School Time
There’s something so special about welcoming a brand-new class each fall. Between Meet the Teacher Night, Open House, and the first day of school, everything feels full of excitement, fresh starts, and possibilities. It’s one of my favorite times of the year because it’s the very beginning of the relationships you’ll build with both students and their families.
If you’re looking for back to school student gifts or beginning of the year gifts for students, you certainly don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a big impact. A simple welcome gift is an easy way to help students feel excited about their new classroom while showing families that you’re genuinely happy to have their child in your class.
One thing I always enjoyed doing was putting together a small, inexpensive gift for each of my students. Was it necessary? Absolutely not! Student gifts have nothing to do with what kind of teacher you are, and I truly believe that. But if you love adding those little touches that make the beginning of the school year feel extra special, you’re in the right place. Below, I’ve rounded up nine easy student gift ideas, along with printable and editable gift tags that make them quick, affordable, and easy to put together.
A Quick Note about Student Gifts
Before I dive in, please note that these are non-food ideas. There are so many different allergies and intolerances and the very last thing I want to do is to accidentally give my new students something that’s dangerous to them or a family member. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
9 Back to School Student Gift Ideas
1. Fidget Poppers
As reluctant as I was to actually buy these at first, I have to say that they’re actually pretty cool. My own kids have them now and even though I don’t 100% “get it”, I can appreciate the novelty and simple fun they provide!
I found these small keychain-sized poppers on Amazon and they’re a really fun option for student gifts! They’re small and relatively cheap, plus they’re really popular now and your students are guaranteed to love them!
2. Foam Finger Rockets
Something about any toy that flies makes kids of all ages happy! These foam rockets are no exception. They come in different colors and sizes, but these are the ones I like best.
The finger loop on the end makes turning these into student gifts a breeze! (Pun intended.)
3. Crazy Straws
I used to do crazy straws as end-of-the-year gifts (a.k.a. “Have a crazy cool summer!”) but they really work at any time. My own kids are always begging for crazy straws and these packs of six straws are my favorite.
4. Sunglasses and Shades
Remember when stunner shades made a massive reappearance in the 2000’s? Or am I just dating myself?
Either way, plastic sunglasses are cheap in bulk, come in fun colors and styles, and are a guaranteed hit. Click here and here for a couple options from Amazon.
5. Art Supplies
Any type of art supply (crayons, colored pencils, etc.) is a simple and relevant student gift. I stumbled upon these mini watercolor palettes and my heart seriously melted. How CUTE are they?
6. Bubbles
My kids go through bubbles like it’s their job every summer and by fall, we need them replenished. Help your students out by sending them home with a bubble wand or bottle of bubbles. 🙂
I got these bubble wands from Target, but here are some similar bubble wands from Amazon.
7. Bouncy Balls
What kid doesn’t love getting a bouncy ball? They make inexpensive and fun student gifts!
Safety Note: Here are some large-sized bouncy balls that are a lower choking risk. Many of my students have younger siblings and I’m sure yours do as well. Send home things that aren’t going to be dangerous or stressful for families!
8. Slime
Love it or hate it, slime is here to stay. There are so many options to buy, so make sure you find a brand that is non-toxic. I like this Play-Doh slime pack!
9. Playdough
Playdough is a childhood staple. It promotes creativity, works fine motor skills, and is all-around fun! It’s an easy student gift, too. Here’s a pack of 2 oz. jars or grab a party-sized pack!
How do I prepare back to school gifts for my students?
The beginning of the school year is so busy and it’s hard to add one more thing to your to-do list. Fortunately, pre-made printable tags make it really easy. These are also editable so you can type your name!
All you need to do is purchase your gifts, print and cut out the tags, and use either tape or ribbon to attach the tags. If you’re using ribbon or string, just punch a hole in the corner of each tag with a single hole punch.
What are your thoughts on student gifts?
I want to know: are you planning to do a small back-to-school gift for your students? If so, leave me a comment below!
Printable Gift Tags Make Student Gifts Even Easier!
Interested in using these tags for your own student gifts? The printable tags shown in the photos are available here.
More Back to School Ideas for Kindergarten Teachers
The first few weeks of kindergarten are full of excitement, but they can also feel incredibly busy! If you’re planning your first days of school, these additional ideas and printable resources can help you create a welcoming classroom while saving valuable prep time.
First Day of Kindergarten Crowns:
Celebrate the first day of school with a printable crown students will love wearing! Click here for the free crown template.
All About Me Activities:
Click here to read about four All About Me activities that are perfect for kindergarten.
First Day of Kindergarten Read Alouds:
Here’s a list of my top ten favorite read alouds for the first day of kindergarten!
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