(BPT) - As the holidays approach, gift giving can be a thoughtful way to spread the holiday spirit and let a loved one know you are thinking of them. While there are many unique gift ideas, there is one type of gift giving that is often overlooked - the gift of learning.

Winter break is a great time for high school students to think about the future of their academic career and what they can do to get ahead of the curve. With a wide range of flexible options available to students today, the opportunities to support learners are endless. If you know a student that would benefit from the gift of knowledge, here are some unique ideas for this holiday season.

1. Help them excel in a language

High school students tend to spend a lot of time on their phones. Why not buy them an app that will help them learn a new language? You can choose from several language learning apps that let students learn at their own pace and reward them for their progress. Many of these apps offer various ways to learn such as structured lessons, fun games and immersive language videos.

2. Introduce them to Sophia courses

If your learner is interested in a self-paced option, consider purchasing them a subscription to Sophia to grant them access to 60+ courses that are designed to transfer to 70+ partner colleges. With Sophia, high school students can knock out college-level courses in a 100% online and flexible environment that allows them to jumpstart their postsecondary education.

3. Pay for a workshop in your student's field of interest

Workshops can help students to learn about a specific field of interest before committing to a course/program. Workshops are typically short-term classes aimed at teaching practical skills and introducing attendees to new concepts that allow them to learn something new without taking up too much of their time.

4. Help pay for their AP exams

Designed to offer high school students the opportunity to earn college credits in a classroom setting, AP courses are a great option for enhancing a student's learning. If your learner is planning to enroll in these courses, consider pitching in on the cost of their exams to ensure that they're set to succeed.

5. Buy them a magazine/book service subscription

Is your learner interested in learning about a wide range of subjects? If so, gifting them a book/magazine subscription service may be the right gift this holiday season. In doing so, you'll allow your learner to have access to a wide range of topics that expand their knowledge.

The holiday season is a time for giving, and gifting knowledge can play a key role in empowering students to learn new skills. With the options outlined above, you can help a learner in your life achieve their academic goals and get a head start on their education as we enter the new year.

Interested in giving the gift of knowledge this holiday season? Explore options with Sophia.