August marks the end of carefree summer days and the beginning of the back-to-school rush. As children nationwide squeeze in their last fun moments in the sun, parents, and guardians scramble to prepare everything for a successful academic year. It's a busy time for families, from buying art supplies for elementary students to sorting out tech gear for high schoolers.
Grandparents and family friends, this is your chance to lend a hand! Show your support for young learners in your life with a thoughtful and practical gift.
Check out our top back-to-school gift ideas for kids across grade levels, approved by grandkids from kindergarten to high school! Keep reading to find the perfect gift.
Back-to-School Gift Ideas for Grandparents
As the back-to-school season kicks in, families focus on gathering all the essentials – pencils, notebooks, and backpacks. You can always pitch in by buying some of these necessities. But for seniors who want a more personal touch, the Seniors Helping Seniors® team found useful and fun back-to-school gift ideas for your grandkids that go beyond the basics.
Whether you're just down the street or miles away, these gifts are perfect for shipping or hand-delivery. Before shopping, check in with the parents or guardians to ensure your gift isn't duplicated. Scroll down to explore our best gift ideas for elementary, middle, and high school students!
Creative School Supplies
While a plain wooden pencil gets the job done, many kids would love to write with a funky gel pen instead. Here are some exciting school supplies that might not be on the official back-to-school shopping list, but your grandkids would be thrilled to have. These items will help them stay organized and motivated all school year long.
• Elementary Students: Whimsical sticker packs, erasers in a fun shape, novelty pencil toppers, themed bookmarks.
• Middle School Students: Goal-setting planner, trendy notebook covers, colorful pens and highlighters, a stylish pencil pouch.
• High School Students: Magnetic locker accessories, interchangeable binder covers, high-quality mechanical pencils, a compact desk organizer.
Personalized Back-to-School Gear
Help your grandkid stand out and avoid mix-ups by giving them custom items. Personalizing gifts with their name or favorite color is a thoughtful way to show you care.
• Elementary Students: Backpack or lunchbox with their favorite animal or character printed on it.
• Middle School Students: Reusable water bottle in their favorite color from a popular brand.
• High School Students: Stylish laptop sleeve or phone case that reflects their personal style.
Games & Gadgets
School is all about learning, but there’s always time for fun! Keep your grandkid’s mind engaged throughout the year with interactive books or exciting tech gizmos that encourage them to do their best.
• Elementary Students: Activity books with coloring pages or mazes, math or reading games, age-appropriate jigsaw puzzles.
• Middle School Students: Popular youth novels, a Bluetooth speaker, a portable charger to keep devices powered throughout the day.
• High School Students: Noise-cancelling headphones, a smartwatch for tracking fitness, a music streaming subscription.
As the back-to-school season approaches, you have a wonderful chance to brighten your grandkids' school year with thoughtful and unique gifts. Whether it's creative supplies, personalized gear, or engaging tech gadgets, these items can help them begin the year with enthusiasm and confidence.