7 Thoughtful Gifts for Neighbors (Even if You Don’t Know Them That Well)

When we moved,leaving our neighborswas one of the toughest things we had to face. The neighbors in our cul-de-sac had been with us through hurricanes and the pandemic; we had pool days and doggie playdates with them; and my boys went fishing and played catch with one of the neighbor kids. They were more than just neighbors, they were “our people” and we knew they had our back.

Now we’re in a new neighborhood and, honestly, I’ve barelymet the neighborswho live around us. I don’t know if we’re all just outside less or if it just takes more time than has passed since we moved in. But I do hope for similar relationships to develop with the people who live in the same corner of the world we inhabit.

Since the season of giving is just around the corner, I thought now might be a great time to break the ice with holiday or pre-holiday gifts — a little something to say “hey there” to people we’d like to get to know. Or maybe you do know your neighbors and would love to give them a small gift that says, “I appreciate having you in my life.”

Whatever the case, neighbor gifts are sure to further the connection.Good neighborgifts are often consumable, universally liked, and able to be enjoyed by the whole household. You can leave them on the doorstep or ring the bell and take the opportunity to have a quick chat.Here are seven of the best neighbor gifts to give (and be sure to include ahand-written card).

A potted plant is a gift that keeps on giving. Potted herbs like rosemary or thyme are beautifulanduseful.

Who can resist a batch of homemade cookies or a basketful of muffins? It’s care on a plate and just the thing for neighbors. If you have kids that contributed, make sure to mention in your note that they helped.

A small package of hot chocolate bombs or a container of fancy hot chocolate mix is a sweet gift that’s sure to be appreciated during the holiday season.

Put the fundraiser popcorn you bought from your officemate’s kid to good use and pass it along to your neighbors with a ribbon and a nice note.

Maybe it’s thepumpkin spice batonsor the honeycrisp apple candle, but I’d be happy to receive any seasonal item from Trader Joe’s! Surely the neighbors will too.

A cute puzzle (you can even find them atDollar Tree) could provide your neighbor’s family with hours of togetherness and fun.

Gather items that you’d put in asimmer pot, such as cinnamon sticks, citrus peels (dry them out first if you can), and cloves, and put them in a mason jar. Include instructions on how to turn them into a delicious-smelling stovetop potpourri along with your note.