Easy Christmas Gifts Students Can Make for Their Grown-Ups

Looking for simple, meaningful Christmas gifts your students can create for their grown-ups—without adding stress to your December prep? These ideas are quick, affordable, and classroom-friendly. Most require only basic supplies and a little imagination, but they make a big impact at home!

1. Chore Coupon Gift (Printable Template)

This one is always a hit! Students fill in thoughtful chores they can do for their grown-ups—like helping with dishes, reading to a younger sibling, or tidying their room.
👉 Grab the Printable Chore Gift Template in my TpT store here: Parent Gift for Christmas

2. Fingerprint or Thumbprint Ornament

All you need is a set of clear plastic ornaments from the dollar store and acrylic paint. Students can add tiny fingerprint lights around the outside or create a fingerprint snowman family. Make sure to grab non-toxic paint. Add a ribbon, and it’s ready to gift!

3. Holiday Photo Frame

Use inexpensive craft sticks to build a frame. Students decorate with sequins or markers, then add a photo taken in class (a quick phone snapshot works perfectly). Add a magnet on the back for a fridge-ready gift.

4. Recipe for Love Jar

Have students write simple “ingredients” that make their family special—like kindness, laughter, or teamwork—on slips of paper. Place them in a small jar or seasonal paper cup wrapped in tissue. It’s thoughtful, unique, and takes less than 10 minutes to assemble.

5. Christmas Bookmark

Print bookmark templates on cardstock and let students decorate with markers, stickers, or watercolor pencils. Laminate for durability and add a yarn tassel. This is a great option if you need something fast and low-cost.

6. Handprint Christmas Tree or Wreath

A classic with a twist—use students’ handprints to form either a layered Christmas tree or a circular wreath. Add a message like “Hands full of love—Merry Christmas!” for a keepsake grown-ups treasure.

7. Wooden Ornaments

Have students paint and decorate pre-cut wooden ornaments. These are relatively inexpensive at local craft supply stores. Glitter optional!

These gifts are easy enough that you can have students make 2 or 3. Perfect for students who may live in various family structures!

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With faith and friendship,

Monica