A father who spent over a decade secretly preparing a unique graduation gift for his daughter has shared the heartwarming moment she received it, describing how she "sobbed" with happy tears upon realising its significance.
A Thoughtful Gesture Twelve Years in the Making
The dad explained that the inspiration came from a Reddit post he saw when his daughter was just four years old. Another parent had gifted their 18-year-old child a copy of Dr Seuss's classic book, Oh, The Places You'll Go!, but with a deeply personal twist. Every page contained a handwritten note from every single teacher the child had from nursery through to the end of secondary school.
"I thought that was a fabulous idea. And stole it," the father admitted. He then embarked on his own long-term mission, asking each of his daughter's teachers, every year without fail, to write a personal message in a copy of the same book, all while keeping the project hidden from her.
The Emotional Graduation Day Reveal
The moment finally arrived this week when his daughter graduated. She graduated at the top of her class, receiving numerous awards. Yet, amidst all the formal accolades, it was the surprise gift that held the most profound emotional weight.
"When she saw that book...and how everyone throughout her life not only believed in her, but knew she would be great, well that gave her an overwhelming sense of pride," the dad recounted. He noted that the gift, which cost him around £10 for the book itself, clearly demonstrated the depth of her parents' love and belief in her, something she fully appreciated in that moment.
Reactions from Other Parents and a Note from Teachers
The story, shared online, resonated deeply with other parents. Many commented they "loved" the concept, with some revealing they had begun similar projects for their own children after seeing the same original Reddit tip. One parent suggested keeping a second copy to read to children as they grow up, reinforcing the book's lessons and creating a core childhood memory.
Another parent shared they were doing this for their eight-year-old son with special educational needs, collecting messages from his many therapists and teachers. "I know one day he will be able to read and he will love seeing how many people believed in him," they wrote.
However, several teachers who saw the post offered crucial advice for parents considering this idea. They urged giving educators plenty of notice and time to write a thoughtful message, rather than presenting the book on the hectic last day of school. One teacher who had signed 13 copies in two days lamented not having more time to craft unique notes for each child.
"It’s a lovely idea, but please understand that teachers could have hundreds of students and responsibilities that make this sweet gift a challenge," one educator wisely noted, advising parents to send the book a month in advance.
The father's final piece of advice to other parents was simple: "So, for all those parents out there with kids about to start school in the Fall, steal this Reddit tip. You'll look like Parent of the Year material at Graduation."
