Choosing the Perfect Teacher Gift

By Michelle Mady

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the lives of their students. They inspire, educate, and support young minds, helping them to grow and develop. While it’s important to show our teachers how much we appreciate their hard work and dedication, adding that to the laundry list of other things that have to get done this time of year can be downright overwhelming.

Adding that to the laundry list of other things that have to get done this time of year can be downright overwhelming.

Yes, a thoughtful gift is the perfect way to show appreciation for your child’s teacher, but Etsy and Pinterest have you second guessing every idea that pops into your mind. In an effort to lessen your to-do list and set realistic expectations for yourself, check out these gifts that any teacher will without-a-doubt adore. Take it from me, a teacher of almost 20 years, these have been some of my favorites! 

A Favorite Thing

Not sure what your child’s teacher likes? Just ask! Have a few questions ready, like “What’s your favorite way to relax?” or “What do you do on a rainy day?” and email them to the teacher. Honestly, teachers will be happy to answer your questions and even happier that the gift that comes to them will be something they REALLY can use.

A Shopping Spree

When in doubt, gift cards are always appreciated. If you have a teacher that uses a lot of supplies, consider getting two gift cards to their favorite shopping spot. Label one for classroom use and one for personal use. Not only will the gift cards be well received, the acknowledgment of their own funds that go into the classroom will knock their socks off!

Nourishment 

Is there a coffee shop or lunch place near the school? Consider a gift card to one of these places. This way they have something tucked in their pocket for a day where they just need an extra caffeine boost or they left their lunch at home.

You can also ask them to send you a lunch order one day and you can bring their food to them- that is always super appreciated!

Something to Remember Your Child

Is your child the most …  ahem ... enthusiastic speaker? Give your teacher some noise canceling headphones. Maybe your child ALWAYS needed help tying their shoes. If so, gift your teacher a “learn to tie board” to share with other children. An avid reader can bring a few books for the classroom library. These gifts will show a level of appreciation that is unmatched. 

A Handwritten Note

This might sound cliche, but I have a full drawer at my desk full of handwritten notes from families. My students are too young to write one themselves, but I do have some drawings that parents have added captions to as well. I pull a few out on a particularly tough day and it always lifts my spirits. Those words of thanks and appreciation last longer than any other gift I have received. 

No matter what you choose, teachers will appreciate any gift that shows how much you care. It doesn’t have to be something extravagant with bells and whistles.  Sometimes less is more.

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