10 Practical Gifts for Single Moms Returning to School (2026)

Returning to school is a significant step for single moms who are juggling various responsibilities. Practical gifts can be a thoughtful way to support them during this transition. Whether it's essential school supplies, productivity tools, or something to help them unwind after long study sessions, the right gifts can make their academic journey smoother. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of ten practical gift ideas that single mothers will appreciate as they balance education and parenting. Celebrate their commitment and hard work with these thoughtful presents that focus on utility, organization, and comfort.

Inspirational Planner
An inspirational planner helps single moms stay organized while balancing school and parenting. It provides a structured layout for scheduling classes, assignments, and family activities, along with motivational quotes to keep them inspired throughout the semester.
2025 Amy Knapp's The Very Busy Planner: 17-Month Weekly Organizer for Women (Includes Stickers, Student Planner, Family Planner, Thru December 2025) (Amy Knapp's Plan Your Life Calendars)
$12.99
2024-2025 Busy AF Sweary Mom 2 Year Monthly Planner: 24 Month Motivational Swear Words and Affirmation 8.5"x11" with Calendar, Funny Inspirational ... Lists, Habit Tracker, Important Dates Notes
$7.99
2024 Amy Knapp's Christian Family Organizer: 17-Month Weekly Faith & Inspiration Planner for Mom (Includes Stickers, Thru December 2024)
$15.29
2024 Amy Knapp's Family Organizer: 17-Month Weekly Planner for Mom (Includes Stickers, Thru December 2024)
$8.56
Educational Kindle or E-Reader
An e-reader is an excellent gift for a single mom going back to school. It provides access to numerous textbooks and educational materials without the bulk of physical books, making it easier to study on the go.
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition including Kindle Paperwhite (32 GB) - Denim - Without Lockscreen Ads, Fabric Cover - Black, and Wireless Charging Dock
$219.97
Through the Looking Glass: Color Illustrated, Formatted for E-Readers (Unabridged Version)
$0.99
Arduino + Android Projects for the Evil Genius: Control Arduino with Your Smartphone or Tablet
$15.34
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) – Now with a larger display, adjustable warm light, increased battery life, and faster page turns – Without Lockscreen Ads – Black
$169.99
Portable Laptop Stand
A portable laptop stand promotes good posture and can turn any surface into a comfortable workspace. This is particularly useful for single moms studying on the go, allowing them to work efficiently wherever they are.
Amazon Basics - Laptop Stand for Desk, Portable and Adjustable Laptop Riser, Holds All Laptops and Notebook up to 17.3 Inch, 10 x 8.7 x 6 in, Silver
$24.22
Pyle Portable Folding Laptop Stand - Standing Table with Foldable Height and Secondary Accessory Tray for iPad, Tablet, DJ Mixer, Workstation, Gaming and Home Use with Bag - PLPTS35
$46.99
SOAR Portable Aluminum Laptop Stand - Height Adjustable Laptop Stand for Desk - Ventilated & Ergonomic Laptop Holder - Universal Compatibility for Notebook Holder - Non-Slip Laptop Riser
$27.08
SHW Height Adjustable Mobile Laptop Stand Desk Rolling Cart, Height Adjustable from 28'' to 33'', Black
2 sizes
Meal Prep Containers
Meal prep containers are perfect for single moms juggling school and family meals. They help in planning meals ahead of time, promoting healthy eating habits, and saving time during busy weeks.
Bentgo 20-Piece Lightweight, Durable, Reusable BPA-Free 3-Compartment Containers - Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe - Silver
$13.99
M MCIRCO 10-Pack,22 Oz Glass Meal Prep Containers,Glass Food Storage Containers with lids,Glass Lunch Containers,Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher (Gray)
$51.86
M MCIRCO [5-Pack,36 Oz] Glass Meal Prep Containers 2 Compartments Portion Control with Upgraded Snap Locking Lids Glass Food Storage Containers, Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher (4.5 Cups)
$34.99
Rubbermaid Brilliance BPA Free Food Storage Containers with Lids
$33.99
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Single moms returning to school often need to concentrate in noisy environments. Noise-cancelling headphones are perfect for creating a focused study atmosphere, whether at home or in public spaces, making studying more effective.
JBL TUNE 770NC - Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Bluetooth 5.3, Up to 70H battery life with speed charge, Lightweight, comfortable & foldable design (Black)
$99.95
Sony MDRZX110NC Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black, medium
$38.00
Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones, Headphones Wireless with Transparency Mode, Deep Bass, Comfort Fit Ear Cups, 30 Hrs, for Home Office Travel
$33.32
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones with Mic, Up To 24 Hours of Battery Life, White Smoke
$349.00
Digital Subscription for Learning Resources
A subscription to an educational platform provides access to courses and resources that can enhance her studies. This is a smart way to supplement learning while being flexible around her schedule.
Norton 360 Deluxe 2024, Antivirus software for 5 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Download]
$24.99
Mysteries in Time Subscription Box for Kids Monthly Magazine and Book Club Puzzles History Educational Activity Kit Gift for Boys and Girls|Ages 6-11
$19.16
Highlights First Grade Learning Subscription Box | Puzzle-Based Activities for School Success | Reinforce Learning at Home in 15 Minutes a Day
$12.49
The Atlantic
$0.00
Cozy Throw Blanket
After a long day of classes and parenting, a cozy throw blanket is perfect for unwinding. It's a practical yet comforting gift that can make study sessions or relaxation time feel much more enjoyable.
Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket for Couch - Thick and Warm Blanket for Winter, Soft Fuzzy Plush Throw Blanket for All Seasons, Navy, 50x60 Inches
5 sizes
Maetoow Chenille Chunky Knit Blanket Throw （30×40 Inch）, Handmade Warm & Cozy Blanket Couch, Bed, Home Decor, Soft Breathable Fleece Banket, Christmas Thick and Giant Yarn Throws, Cream
5 sizes
Cozy Bliss Beige Checkered Throw Blanket Ultra Soft Warm MilkyPlush™ Fleece Blanket Checkerboard Grid Plush Blanket for Couch Bed Sofa, Beige 50"x60"
3 sizes
Eddie Bauer - Throw Blanket, Reversible Sherpa Fleece Bedding, Home Decor for All Seasons (San Juan Oyster, Throw)
$21.72
Thermal Coffee Carafe
For the busy mom who needs her caffeine fix, a thermal coffee carafe keeps beverages hot or cold for hours. It’s a practical gift for long study sessions, ensuring she has easy access to her favorite drink without frequent breaks.
68 Oz Thermal Coffee Carafe, Double Wall Stainless Steel Insulated Coffee Carafes For Keeping Hot, Heat & Cold Retention, 2 Liter Thermal Coffee Tea Beverage Dispenser
$16.99
Winco Push Button Insulated Beverage Server with Swirl Design, 42-Ounce, White
$23.18
Zojirushi SH-HC10BM Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe, 1-Liter, Matte Black
$36.28
Zojirushi AHGB-10DWB Thermal Serve Carafe, 1.0 Liter, White, Made in Japan
$28.21
Smart Water Bottle
A smart water bottle reminds users to stay hydrated throughout their busy day. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels, making this a practical way to support their health while studying.
PHILIPS
2 sizes
Ello
$24.99
Insulated bottle,Coffee bottle,Tea Infuser Bottle,Smart Sports Water Bottle with LED Temperature Display,Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle, Stay Hot for 24 Hrs,Cold for 24 Hrs (Black)
$19.99
IRON °FLASK
$27.64
Ergonomic Desk Chair
Comfort is key for long hours of study, and an ergonomic desk chair can significantly improve her workspace. This thoughtful gift helps prevent strain and discomfort, enabling her to focus longer and more effectively.
Amazon Basics Office Computer Task Desk Chair, Low-Back, Pneumatic Seat, Breathable Mesh, Adjustable, Swivel, BIFMA Certified, 21.25"D x 22.5"W x 38"H, 270 Pound Capacity, Black Nylon
$54.80
Marsail Executive Office Chair with Flip-up Armrests,PU Leather Ergonomic Desk Chair Height-Adjustable Swivel Rolling Computer Desk Chair,Black
$99.98
Home Office Chair Ergonomic Desk Chair Mesh Computer Chair with Lumbar Support Armrest Executive Rolling Swivel Adjustable Mid Back Task Chair for Women Adults, Black
$38.99
FDW Office Chair Computer High Back Adjustable Ergonomic Desk Chair Executive PU Leather Swivel Task Chair with Armrests Lumbar Support (Black)
$69.99

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some budget-friendly gifts for single moms returning to school?

Consider smaller items like planners, meal prep containers, or ergonomic accessories that are both affordable and useful.

How can I choose a gift that will genuinely help a single mom in school?

Focus on gifts that enhance productivity, promote organization, and provide comfort, as these will directly impact her ability to balance school and family life.

Are there any gifts that can help with stress management?

Gifts like cozy blankets and meal prep containers that support healthy routines can help reduce stress, making them excellent choices.

What type of planner is best for moms in school?

An inspirational planner that includes sections for scheduling, goal-setting, and positivity can be particularly beneficial for moms managing multiple responsibilities.