The day before Thanksgiving break, I asked one of my sweet firsties what month it would be when we returned to school. With oodles of confidence, she said “Christmas!” That’s exactly how I feel about December- it’s one gigantic Christmas Eve full of anticipation.
I wanted to share my favorite gifts for firsties. During the winter months, we are typically inside all day. Rather than buy each child a gift for a dollar or two, I like to give class gifts to share. I still spend the same amount of money, but I know what I purchased won’t be forgotten on the bus or tossed in the trash at home after my firsties go to bed. We use our shared class gifts during our daily indoor recess centers.
Here are some of my favorite ideas for classroom gifts.
1. New books for the classroom library
I got these sets from Scholastic, but I also try to buy books about topics my kids like…Minecraft, puppies, Shopkins, science, etc.
2. Finger flashlights
I got this set from Amazon after being inspired by Diane Romo of One Giggle and her Flashlight Friday post!
3. Smelly markers, pencils, and erasers
The rule is that if it smells, kids love it. Even if it smells bad!
4. Classic board games
It’s so much fun to sit down with a group of kiddos and play a board game together!
5. Coloring books and crayons
My favorite place for coloring books is Dollar Tree. They always have a great selection!
6. How to draw books
These are always a classroom favorite! Craft stores are a great place to pick up art books.
Other ideas:
Legos
Building blocks
Play-doh
Bead Sets
Scrapbook scissors
Watercolor paints
Matchbox cars
It’s fun to wrap each gift separately and open one each day for a week or more. This a great way to connect different winter holidays! Plus, kiddos get to enjoy the gifts for months (or even years) to come!
