The 6 Best Winter Holiday Gifts for Social Workers

gifts for social workers

Human services organizations

Social workers put in long hours, absorb tough emotions, and keep pushing forward for their clients. It’s important to recognize all they do for their communities this holiday season by celebrating their hard work. We’ve gathered the six best gifts for social workers, ranging from work sidekicks to relaxing tools for a well-deserved break.

#2: The Five Minute Journal

Nothing beats a spa day, and who needs a relaxing afternoon more than the tough-as-nails folks in social work? With these delightful baskets of serenity, your social worker can finally kick up their feet and relax down into some real R&R. A classic Pamper Hamper includes treats like herbal teas, chocolates, bath bombs, scented candles, and aromatherapy oils.

Everyone has different tastes when it comes to edible bliss, and some folks are sensitive to strong scents—so we’ve simply linked you to the Etsy page for pamper hampers. Find one that fits your recipient and enjoy!

#1: A Pamper Hamper

Described by its creators as a “toothbrush for your mind,” the Five Minute Journal guides a personal meditation on gratitude through its prompts. Your social worker will be treated to pages pondering what they’re grateful for, things that would make the day great, and a list of daily affirmations.

This little book, the original gratitude journal, kickstarted the journaling movement in 2013. It’s the perfect gift for the person in your life who craves daily reminders of their worth and what brings them happiness.

#3: Book Nook Reading Valet

Social workers have to read a lot on the job, and the Book Nook Reading Valet reminds them that they deserve to read for themselves too! This “reading shrine” is brought to you by Uncommon Goods, an online store specializing in upcycled and artisan products worldwide.

The elegant design allows readers to save their spot by safely placing their book atop a wedge. It features simple slots for glasses, a phone cubby, and a drink holder. Clever etched messages appear on either side of the wedge: “Save My Spot” on the front, and “To Be Continued” on the back.

#4: Desk Toys and Trinkets

Quirky folks tend to gravitate toward social work. After all, you’re signing up for long hours, demanding tasks, and a big caseload. It makes sense that social workers would also love to decorate their space with their unique personalities. And the bonus perk of finding decorative gifts for social workers is that they’re great conversation starters.

Even clients who don’t feel chatty, like those with neurodivergent challenges, may light up when they see this Rechargeable Cordless Magic Heart Light Bulb or this Perpetual Motion Ferris Wheel. Make your social worker feel special while making a connection with their client this year!

#5: Desk Chair Wrap

It’s hard to put this gift into better words than its creators did: “Turning yourself into a blanket burrito never looked so professional.” During the cold months, the office can get unreasonably chilly. Whether your social worker pal is bundling up for the indoor environment with a blanket or coat, this is a more collected-looking option for warming up between sessions—or during, if your recipient is comfortable with it!

Its appearance is much more refined than a simple blanket, but it retains a cozy throw's toasty goodness. Plus, its stretchy spandex-based midsection makes it a perfect fit for any chair. There’s a good chance your giftee will take this anywhere they use a desk!

#6: Bifties Self-Care Gift Boxes

What social worker’s day isn’t warmed by a thoughtful gift box from a friend when the weather is frosty? Bifties offers an assortment of gift boxes for any occasion, whether it’s a career success, an uplifting moment, or just plain “because”!

Each box contains a unique and heartwarming mix of items like artisan mugs, scented candles, bath teas, and affirmation cards, just to name a few. There’s even a College Care Package full of comforting and energy-boosting snacks for your social-worker-to-be who’s slogging their way through finals on the way to winter break. And of course, you’re always welcome to build your own to create the perfect fit for that special someone.

Best of all, every Bifties gift box is curated by Black-owned businesses, and represents an opportunity to support the products of multiple entrepreneurs. By lifting the spirits of your social worker, you’ll be promoting unity and fellowship while helping local businesses thrive.

#7: Notehouse

Notehouse is a powerful yet simple note organization platform designed to help social workers get the information they need faster. At just $5 per user a month, it’s a cost-effective way to decrease daily stress while bringing professionals closer to their clients. Notehouse’s narrative-driven interface features a super user-friendly interface, unlimited custom tags, and two-sided encryption for better security.

Here’s a pro tip: have your social worker recipient try out Notehouse’s 100% free trial but don’t tell them you plan to buy it as a gift. Once they inevitably fall in love with the platform, you’ll have the joy of giving them the full version!

Finding the Best Gifts for Social Workers

Oftentimes, the most memorable gifts are the ones you know your recipient will use frequently. It reminds them of your unique relationship and the care you put into choosing it every time they pick it up. From daily meditations on their own value to desk-bound toys that reflect a sense of fun, choosing a great gift is a unique process for every individual. Ponder your social worker pal’s passions carefully, but remember: a gift given in love is never the wrong choice.

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