Teacher Gifts. It’s a recurring topic among parent groups every December and May, and it’s discussed as though there is something hidden or mystical about the “right” answer. As a teacher in a teacher family, but one who has worked and served in non-traditional classroom settings over the past 15 years (private academic and dyslexia tutoring, emergency long-term leaves, teacher training, curriculum, homeschool mom), I’m going to open my mouth and put an end to the conundrum so many stew over.
What do teachers really want?
Teachers want to be appreciated.
It’s really that simple.
Step 1: Have your child write a note or card saying, "Thank you for helping me learn” to each teacher. Yes, if he/she has 8 teachers, that’s 8 notes. A note of gratitude is the foundation of a great teacher gift. (More importantly, though, wise parents know that encouraging gratitude for teachers, staff, school facilities, school activities, and the OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN nurtures and molds a child’s heart in a way that NOTHING else will. Awareness of others and gratitude will serve your child well in life.)
Step 2: If you would like to gift something tangible to staff members or teachers, choose something that makes it easier for them to take care of themselves and their families. By May and December, teachers are often mentally, emotionally, and physically drained in every way. You can’t go wrong with gift cards to common household stores like Publix, Walmart, Target, Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes. Meals that can be easily warmed up the last week of school or over the holidays are a BIG HIT. Door Dash/Grub Hub deliveries from favorite restaurants are a WIN. If you know the teacher LOVES certain products from specific companies, those are GREAT GIFTS, but if you don’t know FOR SURE, something from the above list is more practical and sure to be of value to that teacher.
There you have it. Mystery solved.
Teachers, if you have something to add below, feel free to do so!