As the winter holidays are approaching, students search for the best gifts for their wish lists, family and friends.
A board game—such as Clue, Bop It, Uno, Monopoly or Connect 4—is the perfect gift for a Secret Santa or White Elephant exchange. Similar to how the holiday season evokes childhood traditions and memories, board games often precipitate nostalgia because they are a universal activity students play as a pastime. In modern society, children often spend time staring at a screen rather than playing board games, which are a fun way to enjoy the Winter Break and bond with friends and family.
Hot chocolate bombs, tea packs, coffee pods, holiday mugs and cups are also excellent stocking stuffers or items to add to a gift. “I’m asking for a new Starbucks mug to put my tea in since I use my other one all the time,” Wootton High School Sophomore Ava Eisenman said.
In recent years, social media trends have been responsible for popularizing specific water bottle brands. In 2019, the HydroFlask was in high demand due to the VSCO trend. In the past year, the Stanley Cup has skyrocketed in popularity due to prominent influencers promoting it. The quencher is an item on Churchill Sophomore Skylar Efrom’s wishlist as it is available in varying colors and sizes. It is durable with its recycled stainless steel construction and easy to carry with its secure grip handle. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps liquids cool for 11 hours, hot for seven hours or iced for two days.
Students are asking for everyday clothes from stores such as Nike, Puma, Under Armour, Aerie, Urban Outfitters, Lululemon and Pacsun. “I’m asking for more Brandy Melville sweatpants because they’re so comfy and I’m always wearing them to school,” sophomore Ava Eisenman said.
Slippers are also a prominent item on a multitude of student’s wishlists. Many slippers are available on Amazon and Target, but Ugg remains the most iconic store to shop for during the winter season over the last decade. The Californian brand began with the iconic sheepskin boots in 1978 and has expanded to apparel and accessories. Aside from being comfortable, the slippers even have supportive soles, making them practical to wear outside the house. There are various styles of Ugg slippers such as the Coquette Slipper, the Ascot Slipper and the Funkette. The Tasman Slippers are on Efrom’s wish list this year.
Candles, socks and blankets are always an amazing gift for students trying to stay warm during these colder months. “I’m asking for a fuzzy soft blanket because I love blankets,” Freshman Jolie Ginsburg said.
For a more personal gift, a decorated picture frame, scrapbook or collage are options. Including images of fond memories, the gift is both nostalgic and meaningful. These images could feature an annual tradition or a relaxing vacation, a concert attended together or an engaging experience such as a cooking class. A t-shirt or item that includes an inside joke is also a thoughtful present to make a loved one laugh this holiday season.
As always, gift cards are a fantastic gift, especially for those who are particular with what they like. For example, Shady Grove MS 7th grader Landon Segel wants a Roblox gift card.
Written by Hayley Gottesman of Thomas S. Wootton High School