COVID (Self) Care Package: 15 Holiday Gift Ideas

2020 has been a tough year for everyone. Students, especially, are struggling with the isolation and new restrictions that have fundamentally changed their high school and college experience. To bridge the social distance and help them get through the dark days of winter, here are our Top Tier staff favorites to inspire a thoughtful care package, holiday pick-me-up, or gift to keep for yourself.

2020 HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Pilates Stability Ball

Strengthen your core during remote learning. Simple changes like switching out your desk chair for a stability ball can make a big impact on your health and strength. Don’t let your posture suffer as you hunch over your laptop or work from bed.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Blend

Take a deep breath and re-center with this essential oil blend. This is the perfect size for on-the-go relaxation. Keep it in your purse, or have your student keep it on their desk during exam week.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Heathered Adult Robe

As the temperature starts to drop, you may as well watch that recorded lecture in a cozy robe. This one is a fan favorite, for good reason. Even after a few washes, it keeps its extra fluffy texture.

Kindle Paperwhite

The Kindle has revolutionized our reading habits, and the newest model does not disappoint (it’s waterproof!) This is a great gift for students who need fictional escapism or a way to read their AP English Lit texts on the go. Need inspiration? Check out these 10 Books to Make You Smarter During Quarantine.

First Principles: What America’s Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country

by Thomas E. Rick

This one’s for you, history buffs. Cozy up by the fire and read this new book about the founding fathers by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author, Thomas E. Rick. This book focuses on the influence of ancient culture on American ideals.

The Vanishing Half: A Novel 

by Brit Bennett

Is fiction more your speed? Use your winter break to catch up on the latest New York Times bestsellers. We recommend The Vanishing Half, a new novel by Brit Bennett about twin sisters from a small, southern black community. Longlisted for the National Book Award, this novel follows the sisters as they navigate their families, communities, and racial identities.

Vifa Helsinki Hi-Resolution Bluetooth 4.0 Wireless Portable Speaker

These are easily the most aesthetically pleasing wireless speakers on the market. With Scandinavian design and powerful audio, these would be the perfect addition to a dorm room or bedroom.

Snack Box Club

Students are feeling all kinds of stress right now and, if they’re learning from home, you might be tired of insatiable teens raiding your pantry. Treat your kids to these healthy snacks so they can fuel up during late-night study sessions.

Moleskine 18 Month 2020-2021 Weekly Planner

Help your student stay organized in 2021 with a classic weekly planner. While they’re color coding their upcoming assignments, they might also want to read our Top Tips for Organization and Time Management.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

Whether it’s exam stress, the news cycle, or the pandemic map keeping you up at night, the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask could be the key to more rest. But don’t lose sleep over your college essay! Read about our College Application Essay Guidance program and reserve a spot with one of our senior counselors today.

Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit

If COVID has taught us anything, it’s the power of getting back to basics. Channel your inner gardener and test out your green thumb with this indoor gardening kit. You’ll be surprised how gratifying it feels when your first seeds begin to sprout.

Yogi Tea: Get Well Variety Pack Sampler

Even during a global pandemic, the regular old cold and flu season strikes again. Build up your immunity and fight off lingering symptoms with these warming, comforting herbal teas.

Natural Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist

As we turn on the heat and confront harsh winds, your skin needs an extra layer of defense. This refreshing rose hibiscus face mist uses a base of organic coconut water infused with hibiscus flower petals and Bulgarian rose. It’s perfect for your purse, desk, or cup holder, but we’ll warn you now: one spritz is never enough.

Snake Sansevieria Floor Plant

Add some new life to your study space with this live indoor snake plant (about 2-feet tall). Place it near a sunny window and set a reminder to water it every so often when the soil feels dry. We promise it’s low maintenance.

Bean Box: Gourmet Coffee Sampler

Do you have any coffee snobs in your life? This selection of four gourmet coffees allows you to sample Seattle’s top small-batch roasters. In addition to the beans themselves, this sampler includes tasting notes, roaster profiles, and brewing tips.

Private College Counseling

Last but not least, give the gift that will transform your student’s academic career and place him/her on a scholarly path in our Private Counseling program! If you don’t require unlimited time guidance, consider our world-renowned Application Boot Camp, and watch the magic unfold.