What's an appropriate h.s. graduation gift for my son?

Question

We are an average, middle class family. My husband feels compelled to give him an expensive trip that we could afford, but would make things tight.
This is a kid who's graduating without having put much effort into school. I thought offering him $500. toward a trip was fair, my husband thinks I'm being stingy. I guess I feel like if he had put even a little effort into it, he'd have at least earned it.

I love the idea of a cross country trip, however, he's not interested. My husband offered to take him on a surfing trip they're both surfers) to Mexico but he said he was "going to have to see what my friends are doing. Then I'll know if I want to go".

Answer 1

A gift card from U-HAUL.

Answer 2

I think even that is rather kind! I come from a well off family and they bought me some things I would need for university (sheets, a printer, a small tv, a housecoat, etc) and allowed me to pick out a piece of jewellery that was $150. They didn't want to buy a school ring because they knew I would only wear it for a few years.

I think $500 for a trip is awesomely generous! There is nothing saying you really need to spend anything, so go ahead!

Answer 3

I think the $500 is INCREDIBLY generous of you. He could go plenty of places just on that. I would remind your husband of possible college expenses etc. There's no need to make things difficult for yourselves. I got a TV for my Christmas/Graduation present and my parents are average, middle class as well. My other suggestion would be luggage, but I like the Uhaul gift card idea better :) Otherwise, spend the money to support a hobby of his, like a new guitar or something.

Answer 4

How about a laptop?That would be a nice and practical gift.As far as a trip,that would be nice but your about to pay for more school unless he has some type of scholorship,he should understand.If he really wants to go on a trip he will find his own way.

Answer 5

My son was going to be attending college right after high-school....I gave him a laptop computer. It was something he needed. A trip is not appropriate. Save that for a future honeymoon.

If he is going off to college in another city or state, he will need his own bed linens, towels, etc., and possibly even a microwave or living room furniture.

Answer 6

I graduated high school in 2005 so i know what its like. Do you know what i got from my parents??? A trip out to Chili's (restaurant). I didnt get any money or anything from my mom and dad!!! I would have freaked out to get $500....thanks for making me remember this awful experience...im gonna go cry now **sniff sniff**

Answer 7

wow sounds great a trip but i agree with angelpoet or whatever give him a laptop or something similar a trip would be great for a honeymoon or might just rent him a beach house for 1-2 weeks for him and whoever he wants to invite

Answer 8

I think your idea sounds great. I was given a computer for college when I graduated HS. If he's not going to college, the $500 could go whatever he likes. He's too young to truly appreciate travelling yet anyway.

Answer 9

what you are offering sounds very generous to me. When I graduated high school noone gave me anything so in my opinion I would have to say what you want to give it quite nice

Answer 10

get in the car this summer and drive across country,

camp out, stop at the national parks.

its the most amazing experience he can have at his age.

I

Answer 11

A laptop and giftcards.