You want to give something besides the usual toys, gift cards, clothes to that young person in your life.
You think it might be nice to give something personalized to your younger cousin, niece, neighbor, but aren't sure how it will be received? When you think of monogrammed gifts, you usually think of a wedding, new baby, or anniversary.
These are what you might call the traditional occasions for a monogrammed gift.
But as the saying goes "kids are people too!" Both boys and girls alike love to receive something with their name or initials on it.
Young children, say preschool and elementary school age, are fascinated with letters and spelling their names.
Don't they repeat them over and over!What fun to receive a toy such as a step stool or writing tablet with their name personalized on it! They love monogrammed clothing and personalized towels that they can call their own and distinguish from their brothers and sisters.
If you are unsure of colors or want to give a gift that will be appropriate for either girls or boys, consider a more standard font like a Block or Times and more neutral colors like yellows and greens.
Consider only a last initial if you are unsure how the recipient will react.
Chances are they will delight in receiving a personalized gift made just for them.
The 'tween' years, otherwise known as middle school years can be the 'tough to buy for years'.
These older kids/young adults are developing their own style and flair and it can be hard to know what to buy.
Fortunately, there are many standard gifts that work perfectly for this age group.
Notepads in fun, bright colors or classic black and white can work for just about any personality type and can be personalized with a name or just an initial.
If you are lucky you may even get a thank you note written on one! Engraved silver boxes are great for keepsakes and are a good traditional choice.
There are many personalized fun retro items that are a hit with this age group too.
Then there are the teens.
Of course when these young adults are beginning to drive, the obvious choice is the monogrammed key chain! Classic monogrammed jewelry is perfect for the high school graduate, or embroidered fun laundry bags or umbrellas for the college bound coed.
Teens still have a style of their own, but are learning to appreciate traditions the older they get, so the options increase for personalize gift giving.
Embroidered bags and totes, picnic coolers, personalized luggage tags, a personalized frame for that special prom photo...
you see it gets easier.
So consider something personalized the next time you need a gift for someone young.
They will love it now and they will love it and treasure it as they grow and continue the tradition of giving something unique and personalized to their friends and family.
And that's the fun part of gift giving...
seeing the smiles and watching traditions develop for future generations!