8 Graduation Gifts Your Kids Will Actually Use

Graduation day is almost here, and if you’re like most parents, you’re probably wondering what to give your kids. Should you splurge on a fancy handbag or something more practical, like a camera? To help you prepare, we’ve rounded up eight fantastic items your kids will definitely use.

Keeping to a budget? Not to worry. None of the gifts listed here will drain your wallet. But if you’re concerned your spending has put your credit in the red, we recommend taking a look to find out. You can view two of your credit scores for free on Credit.com.

Now read on for the graduation gifts.

1. Grind Central Coffee Grinder

Here's what to get your kids as they prepare for the real world.

Photo Courtesy of Cuisinart

Price: $29.95 at Cuisinart.com

Teach your kid the value of skipping Starbucks by helping him make up to 18 cups of fresh coffee. Handy measurement markings inside the stainless steel bowl let him grind exact quantities of beans.

2. Large Tint Stackable Drawer

Photo Courtesy of The Container Store

Price: $17.99 each at The Container Store

These roomy drawers, which can be stacked, will be the perfect transitional furniture until your kid’s saved enough for Ikea. Choose from seven colors.

3. Nintendo Switch

Here's what to get for your kids as they prepare for the real world.

Photo Courtesy of Nintendo

Price: $299.99 on Nintendo.com/switch

This dynamic console functions at home and on the go, making it perfect for your busy grad. The removable Joy-Con controllers are ready for solo adventures or multiplayer action. No wonder it’s one of the hottest consoles on the market.

4. 3.5 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Photo Courtesy of Cuisinart

Price: $59.95 at Cuisinart

You already know using a slow cooker saves money, so why not give the gift of a programmable cooker? This one features a 24-hour LCD countdown timer and four cooking modes that automatically switch to warm when cooking is finished.

5. Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Volumes One & Two

Photo Courtesy of Alfred A. Knopf

Price: $40 for Volume 1, $60 for Volume 2 on Penguin Random House

This seminal two-volume set is the perfect gift for any aspiring gourmet chef.

6. Bed Bath & Beyond Gift Card

Photo Courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond

Price: $25 to $200 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Every graduate will appreciate this gift, which never expires and has no fees. All orders more than $29 come with free shipping. (As an added bonus, you can teach your graduate how to save when shopping for the essentials. These 15 ways to save at Bed Bath & Beyond is a good place to start.)