As Teacher Appreciation Week (May 7th – May 11th) gets closer, there’s no better time than now to look for the best gifts for your child’s teacher. You want to find memorable gifts that won’t end up in a closet or in the regifting pile. Keep in mind that “It’s the thought that counts”, but also remember that having too much of a good thing can be overwhelming.
Thoughtful Teacher Gifts
- Photo Books – Create memories with a photo book filled with photographs of the class, class trips, and special events during the school year. Mixbook has Photo Books starting at just $6.99.
- A Donation – Make a donation in the teacher’s name to her favorite nonprofit.
- Potted Plant – If your special teacher has a green thumb, you can’t go wrong with a plant. Choose one in a clay pot
and have your child paint and decorate it.
- A Letter of Thanks – Help your child put into words why he likes his teacher. Leave room for a hand drawn picture and some space for your thoughts.
Gifts that Teachers Like
- Gift Cards – Teachers can get just what they need with a gift card. Unless you know their favorite store, get a card that can be used for a variety of items. Some examples are big box store gift cards, where groceries as well as other items are available and an Amazon gift card, which offers everything from books to home decor.
- School Supplies – You may think that teachers don’t want a gift for their job, but keep in mind that many teachers spend their own money on supplies for their classroom and for students in need. Consider markers, incentive pencils
- Class Pet Supplies – If there’s a class bunny, guinea pig or other classroom pet, buy some food, bedding, toys or other needed supplies.
Gifts That Teachers Don’t Like or Need
- Coffee Mugs
- Best Teacher items
- Homemade foods - soups, cookies, cakes, etc.
- Costly Gifts, unless given from the class
- Anything related to politics, religion, and weight loss – Some can cause controversy and low self-esteem.
Consider all that teachers do for your children. They deserve to be recognized and a teacher gift is most welcome. What are some gifts that you’ve given to your child’s teachers? Do you think it is worthwhile to give teachers gifts?
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About 
I don’t remember having teacher appreciation week when I was in school, but that was many years ago! Teachers work hard and deserve as much praise as they can get! I made a free printable teacher thank you card at my site: http://thankslot.com/teacher-thank-you-card/
Twitter: MommaDJane
says:
I forgot all about Teacher Appreciation Week. EEK. And I’m the room mom. Thanks for the reminder.
MommaDJane recently posted..Interview with Chris Diamantopoulos – Three Stooges
I wrote it early just for you!
Twitter: blm03
says:
Those are some really great ideas!
Twitter: mommysfreetime
says:
I love teacher appreciation gifts! Being a former educator I tend to go overboard when it comes to this time. My kiddo’s preschool teachers were thrilled with the stuff I got them. Thanks for the great ideas!
It’s good to know that a former educator approves of my list. Thanks!
As a former teacher, I can tell you these are great ideas! The list of things teachers don’t want/need is equally important. I remember getting weight loss drugs (I was pregnant), anti-aging cream, and more apples than anyone would ever want!
Jessica recently posted..Blog Party!
No, diet pills? You’ve got to be kidding!
Twitter: kailani
says:
We usually give gift cards so they can be used personally or for class supplies.
Twitter: rockinmama
says:
Great gift ideas! : ) I never thought about a donation…
Caryn B recently posted..Five Compelling Reasons To See Disneynature Chimpanzee This Week
Twitter: simplycathi
says:
Oh my!! I forgot it that time of year. I need to take your ideas and run with them. We’re so thankful for our grandkids teachers and we always try to do something special for them. Thanks Connie!!
Cathi recently posted..Sunday Thoughts – Seasons
Great ideas! Thank you!
A comment on your pet supplies idea, there is a grant available to Pre-K – 8th grade teachers to help purchase and/or maintain a classroom pet (teachers can reapply every Fall). You can apply online and its really easy to do! Let your teachers know about it! http://www.petsintheclassroom.org!
Thanks for this info. I will let teachers and my online friends know about your organization.