While, traditionally speaking, Hanukkah is a minor festival on the Jewish calendar, this holiday has gained increased importance in modern American culture.  Hanukkah, or the "Festival of Lights," overlaps with Christmas celebrations, so Hanukkah gift exchanges can help prevent Jewish children and families from feeling "left out" of the Christmas gift-giving that is everywhere during the month December. This year, the eight-day celebration begins at sundown on December 4.

My friend and mentor, Gloria, has a grandson. Here are a few Hanukkah gift ideas that caught my eye as Hanukkah presents to spoil her grandson with:

Books are always a great gift idea. Here are three books for children -- two for the younger kids and one for the "tween and teen" age group.

• Sammy the Spider's First Hanukkah by Sylvia A. Rouss
  
• Chanukah Lights Everywhere by Michael J. Rosen
  
• Can I Have a Cell Phone for Hanukkah? by Sharon Duke Estroff
  

Scripturewraps Blanket
If you want to give a more spiritual gift for the holiday, Affirmagy.com has a new collection of blankets with favorite scriptures imprinted on each blanket, called Scripturewraps. Scripturewraps' "Hope" blanket contains a passage from Hebrews 11:1 that says: Faith is being sure of what we HOPE for and certain of what we do not see.

I will have more gift ideas for Hanukkah in the weeks ahead but just wanted to give you some ideas in case you want to start shopping a little early!


Find more stories and tips for the holidays at Family.com's Yule Blog