Presents to Mark the End of Middle School
When a school system places ninth grade in high school, finishing eighth grade calls for a graduation ceremony from the middle or junior high level. It helps to settle first whether the present is meant to mark the occasion itself or to recognize what the student has achieved.
By Elliot Hill
Honor your graduate by acknowledging this step towards adulthood.
Where ninth grade marks the start of high school, completing eighth grade brings a graduation ceremony at the middle school or junior high level. Before you buy anything, think about whether the gift is intended to mark the occasion itself or to recognize what the student has accomplished.
Graduation Year Keepsakes
Each year, companies turn out merchandise for graduates printed with the wording "Class of (insert year)". This category covers a wide range, including stuffed animals, mugs, picture frames, scrapbooks, key chains and jewelry. Such items are keepsakes your child can hold onto as a reminder of the occasion. Depending on the item and the store, personalization or engraving may be available. With a picture frame, for instance, you could put his name, the school name or the mascot on a photo album cover.
Scrapbooking
A handmade gift can carry as much meaning as one bought in a store, perhaps more. If you or your child enjoys scrapbooking, you can make one as a gift, or give an empty album so the two of you can work on it together. Choose a scrapbook in the school colors and decorate the cover with a mortar board, the graduation year, the student's and school's names, or a picture of the school mascot. Inside, you might place photos of friends, teachers and the ceremony, a copy of the valedictorian speech, a school ID, pictures from a class trip, athletic awards, the diploma and whatever else matters to you.
Jewelry
Jewelry has long been a traditional graduation gift. It recognizes an accomplishment, though it can also serve as a keepsake when you have it engraved. Options for a girl include a necklace, locket, bracelet, ring or earring; for a boy, a watch, pocket watch or chain; and for either, a class ring where one is available. Jewelry tends to be seen as a more grown-up present, signaling that you recognize your child's maturity. Engraving can carry words of encouragement such as "Congratulations," "We love you," "We are proud of you" or "(Year) grad."
A Big-Ticket Gift
A luxury item can be something your graduate has wanted for a while, and it conveys that you recognize her hard work and commitment. Popular choices among children include technology such as a new computer, laptop, MP3 player or television. If she would rather have a live experience, you could treat her and one or two friends to a concert, sporting event, theater show, ballet or amusement park. The scale of the gift serves as praise for her effort and gives her a chance to unwind before starting high school.
