Five Star Gift Ideas

For your grandson who enjoys researching family history and genealogy, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that can enhance his passion and provide him with valuable tools to continue his research.

1. Subscription to a Genealogy Website: Consider gifting your grandson a subscription to a comprehensive genealogy website like Ancestry or MyHeritage. These platforms provide access to an extensive collection of historical records, family trees, and DNA testing services, allowing him to uncover more about his family history and connect with distant relatives.

2. Family History Book: Help your grandson preserve the family's history by creating or commissioning a family history book. This book can include stories, photos, and genealogical information that he can cherish and pass down to future generations. You can gather information from various family members and work with a professional book designer or utilize online platforms that offer customizable templates.

3. DNA Testing Kit: Encourage your grandson to explore his genetic ancestry by gifting him a DNA testing kit. Companies like 23andMe or AncestryDNA provide insights into one's ethnic makeup, potential relatives, and ancestral migration patterns. This gift can not only provide him with new discoveries but also help him validate and expand his existing research.

4. Research Guides and Books: Help your grandson enhance his research skills by gifting him books and guides on genealogy. Look for publications tailored to beginner or advanced researchers, providing tips, strategies, and techniques. Popular options include "Genealogy For Dummies" by Matthew L. Helm and April Leigh Helm or "Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace" by Elizabeth Shown Mills.

5. Document Preservation Kit: Genealogists often come across valuable documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, and photographs while conducting their research. Help your grandson preserve these documents by gifting him a document preservation kit. This can include archival-quality sleeves, acid-free folders, and preservation sprays to protect fragile documents for future generations.

6. Online Courses or Workshops: Look for online genealogy courses or workshops that your grandson can enroll in to enhance his skills and knowledge. Websites like Udemy or FamilySearch offer a wide range of courses, from beginner-level introductions to advanced research techniques. Choose courses that align with his research interests and goals.

7. Visit Local Archives or Genealogical Societies: Arrange a visit to local archives or genealogical societies in your area. This can provide your grandson with an opportunity to access unique records, interact with other genealogists, and gain valuable insights into his research. Consider accompanying him on this visit to further strengthen your bond and share in his passion.

Remember, the most important aspect of the gift is to show your grandson that you appreciate and support his interest in genealogy. By providing him with tools and resources to further his research, you are not only fostering his love for his family's history but also giving him an opportunity to connect with his roots on a deeper level.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.