If you’d like to give your child’s teacher a gift of appreciation for all they do, think about what would really give them pleasure. Chances are the teacher doesn’t need another box of chocolate covered cherries or apple paperweight. Here are five creative gift ideas for teachers that are both thoughtful and affordable.
Pot Prints
Paint a terra cotta pot white, then let your child dip their hands in acrylic paint and press their palm prints onto the pot (if your child washes his hands right away, the paint will come right off). Next, have your child sign or print their name and the date. Fill the pot with the plant of your choice. Complete the look by making a card shaped like a seed packet and writing a note of thanks for helping your child grow. Use a craft stick and stake the packet in the ground. This is a super cute way to show your appreciation to a great teacher.
Movie Night
Teachers work hard and need to relax, so this is a gift that will let them put their feet up and enjoy a quiet evening at home. Take a microwave popcorn tub and fill it with a couple bags of popcorn, some traditional movie theater candies, and a gift certificate for the local video rental store. They get to enjoy the movie of their choice and snack to their heart’s content.
Classroom Supplies
It’s a fact that many teachers spend their own money to get things they need or want for their classroom. Pack a bag or Box with tissues, antiseptic hand cleaner, pencils, construction paper, games for rainy day recesses, or age-appropriate books for the classroom. The teacher will be able to keep a little more money in their pockets and the class will be better equipped.
Gift Certificates
Teachers say that one of the gifts they enjoy receiving most is gift certificates for book stores, teacher supply stores, or a manicure or massage. They also like gift cards to restaurants, Amazon, or craft stores. A teacher’s limited salary doesn’t allow them to buy indulgent things for themselves very often.
Personal Notes
Most teachers say that the gifts that mean the most to them are notes from parents or students expressing t appreciation for their hard work and commitment. These heartfelt notes are something teachers treasure for the rest of their lives. If you want to be more public in your appreciation, take out an ad in the paper or write a letter to the editor telling what makes that teacher special. There is no material gift that can replace the warm feelings that your sincere thanks will generate in a teacher’s heart.
Teachers do play an important role in the lives of your children, giving them the priceless gift of education. A thoughtful gift in return is a small way to show teachers that you truly value their contribution. If your still unsure there is a wide selection of great pre-made gifts hampers that make great gifts and comes in a bunch of different themes and sizes that fit any budget.
karen M says
Thanks for the tips.. I get a little stumped around the holidays for teacher gifts.