A teacher can only have so many shower gels, desk calendars and coffee mugs. And any teacher will tell you that apple-shaped gifts should be outlawed. Why not donate to a charity you think the teacher would appreciate, or donate books or software to the classroom in the teacher’s name. Gift cards are also a popular choice, but add a personal touch. Pair a bookstore gift card with a bookmark handmade by your child.

Sock Monkey 2009 Wall Calendar, Sock Monkey Slippers, Gift Box of 10 Sock Monkey Cards . . . And more for the sock monkey fan in all of us.

Puzzle Cube Alarm Clock ($19.99, Think Geek)

They have to call it “puzzle cube” instead of “Rubik’s cube” because of copyright issues. Kind of like when you buy generic cough syrup, and it’s just called “Tussin.”

What to get for the parents that have everything – or buy it the instant they sense they might want it? Tiny bonsai tree? Scone sampler and coffee? Coffee table book or a book starring you?

Baby (and parents!) will love these lullaby renditions of The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, U2, Metallica, Nine Inch Nails, The Eagles, Bob Marley, Coldplay, and more. Or check out organic socks or a cozy, insulated, fleece sac. Babies have it goooood.

Kids and kids-at-heart love to play with building toys. Check out Magnext, LEGO, Fantasy Blocks, Tinkertoys and Eames House of Cards.

For the game enthusiast on your list, check out the Xbox 360 Cooling Station, the Boompod Audio Chair, or a variety of gaming apparel and accessories.

And enter to win one of two Spectrobes: Beyond the Portals games for Nintendo DS.