Holiday Tips: Stocking stuffer ideas

Stocking stuffer suggestions or ‘just a little something extra’, for toddlers, teenagers, in-laws, the boss, even unexpected guests, from electronics to handcrafts.

Christmas is a time of joy, fun-filled days, shopping for that perfect gift, and tremendous frustration! What do you buy someone that you know little or nothing about? On the other hand, someone that you do know, and very well at that, but has everything imaginable already? Or the worst case scenario, when you have shopped, and purchased a gift for someone, but would like to add ‘just a little something extra!’ What exactly is a suitable ‘little something’? Do not despair! Here are gift suggestions for that last minute stocking stuffer for every individual on your list, from your cousin’s two-year-old, to your boss, and a few gifts that are ideal for just about anyone except the very youngest of the crowd.

Gift Suggestions for the Boss

If you have recently started a new job, know nothing about your boss outside of the office, but have picked up that the notion of gifts are not only acceptable, but also welcomed, here are a few ‘safe’ gifts to give. A bottle of cheer, non-alcoholics style, in a festive bottle wrap. Homemade fudge or candy boxed neatly. If you have known your boss for some time, know his or her habits and likes, feel free to give something along these lines. T-shirts of favorite sports team, from local to national, with tickets to a game! A hardcover book of a classic or favorite (theirs) authors.

Gift Ideas Teenagers will Welcome

Teenagers, no matter their upbringing, know the value of a dollar. For this reason, gift certificates top the list for last minute stocking ideas. Whether for a boy or girl, a gift certificate to a music store is an excellent choice. Do not overlook restaurant certificates, as teenagers enjoy an evening out as much as adults, maybe more! Certificates to major chain stores are always greeted warmly, such as Wal-Mart or Kmart. Teenagers also enjoy ‘grown-up gifts’, so a basket filled with bathroom essentials is always welcomed: soaps, shaving paraphernalia, cologne in neutral scents. Teenagers also will enjoy a gift that is ‘them’! If they have a belly button pierced, or dress in a unique way, give something that tells them you enjoy their sense of style. A new ring for that pierced body part, or again, a gift certificate for whatever store it is that they find their creations from, be it that boutique downtown or Goodwill.

For Toddlers and Preschoolers who have it all!

If you have a toddler or preschooler, or are acquainted with someone who does, you know that kids today already have every toy imaginable, so what more could they want! Most young kids I know are artists at heart, for this very reason they are easy to satisfy. Before purchasing and giving any of these gifts, check age appropriate guidelines on individual packages. Markers, crayons, watercolors, tubes of paper, glitter, rubber stamps and ink, beads for stringing, sticker kits, felt, and any other art supply you can think of. If they happen to not enjoy art, not all is lost. Building blocks are a long time favorite, i.e. Lego’s. Soft dolls are enjoyed today as much as they were 100 years ago and quality handcrafted ones can often be found at craft-shows or church bazaars. Sleeping bags for that future explorer, while a bit big for a traditional stocking, can be a main gift, with a mini lantern (battery operated for safety) tucked into the stocking.

In-laws

Yes, you are suppose to buy the ‘perfect’ little gift for these individuals, if you buy for no one else! Keep in mind, you would not have your loved one if it were not for them. The rule for buying for in-laws is that all rules are off. If you know something that they like or enjoy, go for it. This can be a luxurious velvet throw for their favorite chair, or the electronic salad shooter on sale at the hardware store. How about a gift certificate to a day spa for your mother-in-law? Fine, if you purchase two, and tell her you are going with her so you can spend some quality time together. The same holds true for you father-in-law. A round of golf for him and a companion, at the new course in town, while you caddy!

Gifts for Everyone (Almost!)

If you are fortunate, enough to know an artist or craftsperson that makes something both interesting and unique, this can be an ideal source for gifts. For instance, I know someone who handcrafts the most gorgeous ocarinas. These are playable flutes on cords, each an individual work of art, suitable for a wide range of people from teenagers to a new or old boss. If you happen to come across something like this, buy a few to keep on hand as last minute gifts.

Computers have their own group of fanatics, from pre-school to elderly. A stocking filled with a new mouse, mousepad, and a box of colorful disks, plus throw in a discounted game, everyone loves pinball, and this can be given to nearly anyone.

Unexpected Guests

I always wrap a few gifts for that unexpected arrival. Tuck the following items into pint-size stockings for the truly well prepared: Mini bottle of champagne style bubble bath. Gold foil wrapped chocolates. Electronic hand held game, (there is a wide assortment of these to choose from for under $10). Holiday decorated mug stuffed with flavored cocoa and stirrer to match. For the youngest visitor, a stuffed character with matching storybook, Happy Holidays!