It's the season for graduations and with that comes the frustration of "what to get that special grad on my list." I've compiled a list of graduation gift ideas, both big ticket items (over a couple hundred dollars and up), to small ticket items (under a couple hundred.) Here's What I suggest that will have them hugging and thanking you. Check it out.

 

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    Transportation

    Transportation
    I told my kids "if you graduate at the top of your class or close to it I'll buy you a car." a couple of my kids called my hand on it. I am a big believer in making sure the kids have a safe car to drive, especially getting to and from school. It doesn't have to be 'off the showroom floor new' but new to them and with some kind of peace of mind warranty.

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    Cash is King

    Cash is King
    Anytime you give a young person cash or one of those Visa/MasterCard gift cards they immediately know exactly what to spend it on. Clothes, gas, food , books and if you are lucky enough to have one like my daughter who spent all hers on tuition. I highly recommend that if you want to give them cash and other family and/or friends want to do the same, a re-loadable gift card is a great idea. When the child is home for the holidays you may want to re-load their card to help with fuel and food.

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    Electronics

    Electronics
    In the day and age where communication is everything, a laptop, iPad, Kindle, smartphone, Mp3-player, Hands-free electronics for the car, Navigation system and even iTunes and Amazon.com gift cards are greatly appreciated.

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    A Vacation

    A Vacation
    Nothing says I love you more than sending your child off on a vacation. Whether it's a flyaway to and all inclusive resort or on a cruise. A short well guided vacation will help get them ready for traveling and prepare them for what lies ahead. To be more specific, on a vacation they'll have to keep up with how much they can spend and on what. This gives the recipient a chance to spread their wings and manage finances.

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    Dorm Essentials

    Dorm Essentials
    I don't advise giving sheets, towels and blankets as grad gifts, however a dorm refrigerator, flat panel television, DVD player, desktop computer, compact mP3/stereo system, microwave oven, electronic picture frames and other items that will make dorm life a lot more bearable and little more like home.

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    Personalized Gifts

    Personalized Gifts
    When it comes to reminding your child who loves them and is always thinking of them, give them personalized jewelry. Something that will remind them that they are loved and missed. A necklace, bracelet, key chain, wall clock, desk clock and picture frames with pictures of friends and family.

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    Snack Basket Care Package

    Snack Basket Care Package
    Here is where creativity really comes in, because now you'll need to know what the recipient likes. I call these survival baskets and they come with cheese, crackers, nuts, summer sausage, popcorn, dried fruits, coffee, tea, cookies and if you really want to get sneaky slip in a gift card or two to their favorite places or the movies. I recall getting a call from my son thanking me over and over when he discovered the coffee house and movie theater gift cards.

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    Essentials Care Package

    Essentials Care Package
    When the grad gets to the dorm, community showers are almost always the norm. A shower caddy or small rubber basket with handles to carry the essentials. Fill the basket with body wash, shampoo, conditioners, brush, loofah, shower shoes, head wraps, towels.

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    Computer Components

    Computer Components
    Jump drives are worth their weight in gold, especially when that report has to be turned in right away and you left it in your dorm. Only to discover you've backed it up on a small sized high capacity thumb drive on your key chain. Video cameras for computers are rather inexpensive and make communicating back home easier. Software and/or programs that involve their field of study are good too.

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    Books and Cards

    Books and Cards
    Finally, when there's absolutely nothing on television and the weather is beautiful, grab a good book and head to the great outdoors for an afternoon of reading. A new Bible is also an awesome idea for times when lonely catches up. Kindle or Nook gift cards are good too.

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