Who gets what this season
Holiday tipping and gifting should reflect regional customs. If you are new to a community talk to your friends, neighbours and colleagues. As my maternal grandmother Florina always said: ‘When in doubt, find out. Don’t be shy, about asking the receptionist, the management, the owner or the service provider him or herself. It is better to ask than to risk making a faux-pas or hurting someone's feelings.
Holiday tipping is based on three criteria: foremost your budget, then the impact of that person on your life and lastly the length and future of your relationship with that person. Make a list and allocate.
Who gets a tip?
Generally speaking the people you pay directly or provide you with complementary services may be offered cash.
People that you may offer cash to are: your babysitter, cleaner, dog walker, hairdresser, live-in nanny, manicurist, personal trainer, personnel at a private club (expect when the rules forbid employees to accept cash) superintendent and tutor.
The amount of the tip will be based on the above three criteria up to the full value of the service.
When offering a tip it may be accompanied by a homemade goodie. Holiday Jar Gifts are an easy and fun craft to make with the whole family. They spread the season's magic and joy and are appreciated by all.
Who gets a gift? 
You would offer a gift to the people that you do not pay directly such as the people in your child’s life. You could also offer gifts to the caregivers in your parents’ lives whether they are in a nursing home or not.
For the teachers, daycare workers, instructors and anyone that is part of your son or daughter’s world make sure to involve your little ones in the gratitude process. Boys and girls may help in the the choice of a gift and by writing a thank you note or drawing a picture.
When giving gifts to groups of people it is important to offer gifts of equal value. It is appropriate to offer a group gift such a basket of sweet treats for a team of service providers.
Here are more guidelines in a Globe and Mail article that I contributed to.
Julie’s recommendation
All tips or gifts should be accompanied by a handwritten note that expresses your gratitude and offers your seasonal wishes.
