Christmas Gifts for Grandparents

As you’re making your list and checking it twice this year, choosing a gift for a grandparent can be difficult at times. If your grandparent is the type who appears to have everything, the gift selection can be even more strenuous. Here are a few suggestions for choosing the right gift for the grandparents on your list.

The first step in choosing an ideal gift is to listen. In the months prior to Christmas, keep your eyes and ears open when you spend time with your grandparents. The words, “Oh, it would be handy to have…” or “I sure could use…” often precede an off-hand comment that could later turn into a great choice for a Christmas gift. Take a look around your grandparents’ house. Do you see something that needs updated or replaced? Is it an item that grandma and grandpa wouldn’t spend the money on themselves? This, too, could turn into an idea for a Christmas gift.

If distance separates you from your grandparents, employ some spies to help you. Other family members who live in the vicinity of grandma and grandpa could be called upon to be your eyes and ears this Christmas season. Or, another relative may have heard your grandparents mention something that they need or want. If they’re willing to share this information with you, then you can use it in your gift selection.

Another strategy is to pay attention to your grandparents’ hobbies. Choose a gift that will help them enjoy their leisure time activities. For example, my grandmother is a wonderful knitter, so a gift that includes yarn or a knitting idea book is always right up her alley. My grandfather survived Pearl Harbor and was a proud member of the Navy during World War II. Up until his death, he could tell me every detail of his experience on that fateful day. Through the years, I was able to find many gifts related to World War II, the Navy, and Pearl Harbor that were to his liking. He never tired of reading a new book about the war or pouring over a piece of Pearl Harbor memorabilia. Take time to note your grandparents’ interests and then turn those into a thoughtful and creative gift.

If you’re still feeling flummoxed, try to think of a gift that keeps on giving. For example, put together a movie-watching kit of a fleece blanket, popcorn, and a few classic movies on DVD. A coffee kit is another creative gift idea. Choose an interesting mug and then pack a gift bag full of different coffees. The chocolate gift is another selection you might make. Peruse the candy aisle and put together an assortment of different chocolates and treats. Throw in a local favorite like Winan’s or Esther Price, and this makes for a delicious gift for grandma and grandpa. The gift of reading can always be appreciated. Even if you don’t feel comfortable choosing actual titles, pick a novelty book and then include a gift card and an assortment of bookmarks.

The gift of time is one that is always a hit with grandparents. Whether you help with some handyman-type tasks around the house, or you take your grandparent on an outing to the movies or to lunch, spending time with each other is a gift that benefits everyone. Take time to invest in a relationship with your grandparents, and you’ll be all the richer for it.

 

The key to finding just the right gift for a grandparent is to watch, listen, and then apply some creativity. Think outside the box, and you just may be able to surprise them on Christmas morning.