Teacher Appreciation Week starts today. A lot of schools have activities in place to show their teachers how important they are, but you may feel inclined to give your son or daughter’s teacher(s) something more than the PTO sponsored lunch. I took a poll from some of my teacher friends for gifts they LOVE and which ones end up in the junk drawer.
Teacher Faves
The most requested thing on their lists? Gift cards. Gift cards. Gift cards. Amazon is always great as you can buy practically anything from the online retailer. Other good options: Target, Wal-Mart, bookstores, itunes/app store, movie theaters, and local restaurants and coffee shops.
Check out these printable gift card holders from Fabulously Frugal for a quirky way to present your gift cards.
If you want to be a bit more hands on, put together a gift basket or bag like this adorable beach bag gift from Skip to my Lou, filled with a beach read or two, acrylic tumbler, iced tea/lemonade mix, a bright nail polish, and a blanket/towel.
Flowers are also a nice gesture. Inexpensive and beautiful, they are sure to brighten a teacher’s day. You can get this printable tag for your own bouquet here.
If you are worried about flower allergies, stick to non-fragrant and low pollen content flowers, or a non-flowering houseplant like ivy or a succulent garden. Make your own desk top succulent garden with this easy DIY from Shanty 2 Chic.
Most teachers also like to receive sweet treats. Again, you do need to be aware of any allergies, but a note alongside some homemade lemon loaf is all the gift that’s needed. Check out our Lemon Poppyseed Banana Muffins or our Banana Coconut Chocolate Chip Muffins.
Simple gifts are the best and won’t break the bank. A thought-out note of appreciation or a handmade card from the kids, yes even your high schooler, can be all it takes to put a smile on a teacher’s face.
The “No” List
On the “no” list are “Great Teacher” mugs (no more mugs in general please), ceramic apples, and other teacher tchotchkes. Most teachers love teaching, it’s certainly not for the money, but most don’t decorate with teacher paraphernalia.
Also on the “no” list are inspirational books, lotions, sprays, and scented candles. You may think you’re being pampering by buying these, but unless you have a relationship with little Jonny’s teacher beyond student/teacher/parent, it’s best to skip these more intimate gifts. If you don’t know what scents the teacher may prefer or if they’re allergic to anything, it is best to steer clear.
At the end of the day, it really is the thought that counts. Some of the most simple gifts are the most appreciated. Anything that helps a teacher to relax is outstanding. Teacher Appreciation Week is, after all, a week to show teachers how much they mean and how much of an impact they’ve had.