5 Great Teacher Gifts

The end of the school year is upon us, and, it’s time to show a token of your appreciation to your child’s teacher. While teachers don’t expect gifts, if you do choose to give one, it’s certainly appreciated, and, it’s important to choose carefully.

By now, you are probably aware that teachers have more than enough apple themed knick-knacks proclaiming them the “World’s Best Teacher”, but, teachers also want you to know that they have enough coffee mugs, candles, magnets, lotions, and, soaps to last a lifetime.

Most teachers agree that a heartfelt note of thanks, or, a homemade gift is best, but, sometimes parents would like to do something different. If you choose to give your child’s teacher a gift, here are 5 ideas:

1. Gift Certificates: People sometimes feel that gift-certificates are too impersonal, but, be aware that many teachers are working parents who don’t often make a lot of money, and, a gift certificate may help with a true need. Look for ones to businesses near school that have a wide selection such as Target, or, with gas prices the way they are, a gas card might make a big difference to someone.

If you want to the teacher to have a more personal treat, I have it on good authority (I’m married to a teacher) that gift certificates to bookstores, movie theaters, or, Starbucks are always appreciated.

2. Film, Cameras, Picture Developing - Those cute photos on the wall in your child’s classroom? It’s quite possible that the teacher took them, and, paid for them herself. Consider a basket of disposable cameras, or, film, an inexpensive photo album, and, a gift certificate toward photo developing at a discount retailer.

3. Items from a classroom wish list - Your child’s classroom may have a “wish list”. Often, teachers have to pay for some classroom items from their own money. Find out what they need, just ask! It may be as simple as some office supplies, and, fill a colorful box. Sometimes, craft stores have dollar bins with pens, pads, glue sticks, etc. Stock up during the year.

Don’t worry if that seems like “no fun”, it’s what they need.

4. Movie Night Bucket - Put some movie theater sized boxes of candy, some popcorn, a bottle of soda in a paint bucket, add a movie rental certificate, and, you’ve got a night at the movies where your favorite teacher can relax at home.

5. Summer Fun Bag -One year, I gave the teacher a beach bag filled with a towel, sunscreen, bug spray, and, small, collapsible cooler. Of course, you would have to consider whether or not the recipient enjoys the outdoors, but, it was a fun gift.

Try to stock up on these types of items at end of the season sales in August, but, many places have a variety of affordable things on the shelves now.

Your school may have certain guidelines on gift-giving, but, no matter how you do it, acknowledging hard work is appreciated by any teacher.