7 Gift Ideas for Sign Language Interpreters
by: Brooke LaTurno, EIPA 4.0 - Interpreter Coordinator
This post is not sponsored.
Below are some gift ideas for sign language interpreters! Hopefully this list will be helpful the next time you need a gift for the interpreters in your life.
1. I Love You (ILY) ASL pasta
Cost: $6.99
Website: https://shop.parentsgonehiatus.com/products/i-love-you-asl-based-pasta
Check the inside label for instructions to play a game with your pasta!
2. Deaf Art Note Cards: Works of Harry R. Williams (set of 5)
Cost: $10.95
Website: https://www.dawnsign.com/products/details/deaf-art-note-cards-works-of-harry-r-williams-set-5
3. Upgrades to daily equipment
Do they need a case to hold business cards? Or a freezable lunch box? Maybe a replacement travel first aid or sewing kit, or a new reusable water bottle?
You could restock their emergency interpreting toolkit with backups: lint rollers, tissues, travel toothbrush and floss, mints, stain remover pens, etc. Include some fun extras to add personality, like a book of Mad Libs or a Zentangle art journal.
4. Workshop voucher
Interpreters are always on the lookout for professional development opportunities. Pick out a great workshop and treat the interpreter in your life to some Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
If you are not sure where to find information about upcoming workshops, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) website has a helpful search tool, which is a great place to start your search!
Many workshops are now offered online, so it is possible to participate from all over the world. Just be sure to let the interpreter know if they need to use a time zone converter.
5. Shared experience
Often our shared memories are the most treasured gifts of all. Sign up yourself and the interpreter in your life for kickboxing or pottery painting – something physical to blow off steam, or something creative to unwind. Either way you will enjoy quality time together, with the bonus of relieving stress.
6. Gift certificate for a massage
Interpreters are at risk for repetitive strain injuries and can hold onto tension after assignments that negatively affect their bodies. One way to soothe and release that strain is through massage. Treat yourself as well and plan a joint spa day!
7. Rosetta Stone
Cost: Plans starting at $7/month or $179 for a lifetime subscription (“unlimited languages” – 25 languages currently available!)
Website: https://www.rosettastone.com/buy/gift/
It is safe to say that interpreters love language and learning a new language can provide many cognitive and life enriching benefits. Over a lifetime of learning, your loved one can become a polyglot!
For more gift ideas, check out the resources below for links to Deaf-owned businesses:
https://www.startasl.com/deaf-owned-businesses/
http://www.dwu.org/deaf-women-owned-small-businesses/
https://www.csd.org/stories/deaf-businesses-holiday-gift-guide-2021/
Do you have any gift ideas that you think an interpreter would specifically love? Share in the comments below!
If you are an interpreter in the Southeast Florida area, interested in freelance work and have availability days, nights, or weekends, please contact us! We have a variety of assignments throughout the community (medical, evening/overnight hospital shifts, day/evening college classes, school districts, legal, etc.). Visit our website and submit our New Interpreter Questionnaire.