August is in full swing and that means “Back to School” is just around the corner. When I look back on college, I remember the fun, the freedom and all the friendships; but, we tend to look back with rose-colored glasses, forgetting about all the stress and anxiety we felt. So if your child, or someone you know, is heading off to school soon, he or she might be freaking out. How can you help? By making sure they have everything they need to succeed. CNET has published its annual back to school tech guide, comprising gift ideas for any budget. Here are their Top 5:

All-in-one Printer

It might be the norm to submit papers via email but there are still times when it will be necessary to do it the old-fashioned way - paper and ink.  The Epson Stylus NX430 can help with any students printing-copying-scanning-faxing needs for $80. 

Camera

Unless you want your kids college experience documented as a shmorgas-board of Facebook photos, a real camera might be a good gift idea. CNET picks the Canon EOS Rebel T3i for $610.

Mindless Entertainment

School might be a place for learning, but sometimes a student just need a break. That’s where gifts like a new TV or Roku box come in. Perhaps these gifts will result in more movie-nights and fewer keggers. Suggested models include the Panasonic TC-P50ST50 for $1,200 and the Roku HD for $60. 

Computer

A computer is likely the most important tool for any student. Students will need a solid computer for trolling Facebook, downloading music, and of course writing papers at 3am. CNET suggests a Dell Inspiron 14z for $900.

Smartphone

Students will have one less excuse for not calling if you buy them a smartphone before heading back to school. Rumors have the new iPhone coming out in September, so hold off buying one now. Instead, CNET recommends the Motorola Droid Razr Maxx for $100. Students will appreciate it’s long battery life and durability. 

Let us know in the comments what back to school gifts you’re planning to buy and what you think about the picks above.  What will you be listing on GiftSimple?

The end of the school year means it’s time for graduation gifts and teachers’ gifts. Our last post outlined Practical Gifts for Grads using GiftSimple (see below). Cash is the most practical gift, but can sometimes seem impersonal.  Here are a few ways to get more creative with cash giving:

1. GiftSimple (of course!)

GiftSimple is a social gift registry, where users register for gifts and tap into their Facebook network to pool contributions from friends and family. It’s like layaway, with a little help from your friends. And GiftSimple can also be used to organize group gifts for others. Perfect for end-of-year teacher gifts, or that friend who won’t tell you what he/she wants. Visit us at GiftSimple.com, follow us on twitter @GiftSimple, visit out page on Facebook, and view our boards on Pinterest.

2. Box of Chocolates Money (lifeasmom.com)

This clever gift is sure to get a smile. While it’s a great way to give your Grad cash, it can be used for almost any occasion. If the gift recipient is leaving on a trip, you can include the currency of their destination.

3. Money Soap (everynothingwonderful.com)

Talk about delayed gratification! Putting money in soap might be slightly cruel but it is definitely creative. And a great way to make sure your Grad keeps his hands clean!

Do you have other creative ways to give cash gifts? Tell us in the comments below or write on our Facebook Wall.

Happy Cash Gifting!