Inexpensive and meaningful gifts for paras and classroom support staff… every year, I see tons of posts on social media about what to get teaching assistants for the holidays.
Paraprofessionals aren’t paid well enough, and we want them to feel appreciated. Buying just any gift isn’t really in the cards… no one wants a junk gift.
So, what do you get paras and classroom staff that they’ll actually want and enjoy? We asked other teachers what they thought, and the ideas below are the winners. If something you think should be on the list isn’t, let us know, and we’ll add it!
The Best Gifts for Paras and Aides
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Handwritten Thank You Cards
These are ALWAYS appreciated!
Echo Dot
An Echo Dot is a lot less expensive than you may think and it’s a fun addition to their home!
Baked Goods
Things like Chex mix, caramels, homemade hot cocoa mix, and cookie buckets are always fun and delicious.
Wristlet Purses and Keychains
Keychains and wristlet bracelets, and purses are always needed. They’re a practical and fashionable para gift!
Gift Sets from Bath and Body Works
Bath and Body Works is known for its holiday scents. If that’s something your para enjoys, consider grabbing a gift set for her from there.
Gift Cards to Their Favorite Places
Where does your para love to shop? Find out and grab a gift card from there!
Candles
Candles, especially holiday-scented ones, are perfect for para gifts.
Special, Customized Mugs
Get a mug with your para’s name or a favorite saying that you both have in the classroom.
Customized Teaching T-shirt
A fun teaching tee is a great way to recognize your para for all she does.
Alex and Ani Bracelets
Cute and delicate, Alex and Ani bracelets are a pretty gift option.
Yeti or Customized Cups
Fun cups and tumblers make staying hydrated easy!
Coffee or Breakfast
Does your para have a favorite coffee order? Stop and pick up her favorite java and some breakfast before school! She’ll feel appreciated and thought of!
Secret Santa Exchange
Do a Secret Santa Exchange with your grade-level team and be sure to include your para’s name in the mix.
Blankets
A comfy, cozy blanket is great for self-care at the end of the day and it’s the perfect gift for the holidays.
Ornaments
Ornaments are always a fun gift! They can be serious, fun, or sentimental.
Homemade Gifts
If you’re crafty, make a homemade gift that shows your para how much she means to you.
Wine and Gift Cards
Make a wine and gift card basket that your para will appreciate after a long semester.
Bath Kits
Include bath bombs, bubble bath, and a loofa.
SPED Para Survival Kit
This one is fun to make! Include things like hand sanitizer, tissues, chapstick, lotion, pens, highlighters, and chocolate – lots of chocolate!
Lottery Tickets
Are you feeling lucky? Hopefully, your para will be when she plays the scratch-off tickets you get her!
Baggu Bags
Cute bags? Yes, please!
Team Shirts
Paras aren’t often included in 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 para has a green thumb, a plant is a great gift!
Mani/Pedi
Get a gift certificate to your para’s favorite nail salon.
Self-care Kit
Create a basket with cozy socks, a lavender candle, and a face mask.
Pyrex Winter Dish Set with Homemade Food Inside
It’s a dish and a treat all in one!
Dinner Out
Take your para out to dinner or lunch. It’s a great time to connect and have fun.
Badge Lanyards
You can never have too many lanyards!
Kitchen Towels
Choose ones that match your para’s kitchen’s theme!
5 Days of Inexpensive 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 the local holiday craft shows and pick up some lux handmade soaps.
Fun Holiday Socks
Grab a pair of fun holiday socks that your para can wear every year!
Movie Night Box
Include a movie/Redbox code, popcorn tin, or bags of microwave popcorn.
Team Luncheon
Have all of the teachers in your school band together and host a holiday luncheon honoring your paras!
Custom Clipboard
Create a custom clipboard for your para 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 paras and classroom staff for the holidays?
