Teacher Gifts

I read this today & it made laugh. I can relate. Take a second to read it if you're pondering what to give your child's teacher this year for Christmas, and then move onto the other article below. It's copied from an article I read online last year. Both of these give some pretty good ideas!

What Teachers Really Think about Apples

Holiday Gifts Teachers Like Best
As we approach the winter holidays, it’s likely you want to show your appreciation to your children’s teachers. And you’re stumped. What’s appropriate? How can you express your gratitude without looking cheap?

I’ve heard from many teachers and parents on this subject over the years and generally I’ve learned that gifts are appreciated, but not expected. Should you and your child wish to give a teacher gift this holiday season, I believe I can help you by simply passing along the sentiments of teachers who write to me.

What not to give:
LAVISH, EXPENSIVE. Avoid any appearance that a gift is payment for services rendered. This of course rules out the $100 gift card, expensive jewelry and the like, no matter how well-intentioned. Even if they are allowed by the administration, expensive gifts make teachers feel uncomfortable.

COLOGNE. This comes from a wide range of teachers—both male and female: Please no more fragrance or dusting powder.

KNICK-KNACKS. Unless it’s a handmade treasure signed by your child, forget the knick-knacks. Paddywhacks and coffee mugs, too.

What teachers really want:

GIFTS FOR CLASSROOM. Schools everywhere these days are suffering from budget cuts, leaving classrooms in need of basic tools and supplies—and teachers dipping into their own wallets. If you are not aware of the specific needs in your child’s class, ask the teacher what the classroom can really use. Any gift from a new book to arts and craft supplies will be gratefully received. Make sure you involve the child in the decision and the gifting.

KID-MADE CRAFTS. A special craft item that can be used by the teacher in the classroom (a box to hold paperclips or pushpins for example) made by the child is a great idea. It makes the child feel proud when the gift can really be used by the teacher.

A SIMPLE THANK YOU. One teacher told me about the album he’s been filling with letters of thanks from students and parents for more than 20 years. These heartfelt expressions are priceless gifts that will last for a lifetime, and encourage him every time he reads them.

CONSUMABLE GOODIES. Teachers often don’t have time to bake, so they love to receive wonderful homemade goodies around the holidays. Put them on a decorative plate or in a fun holiday container and wrap with cellophane and pretty ribbon. Always attach a handwritten note from the child.

GIVE TO CHARITY. If you know of a non-profit charitable cause that holds special meaning for the teacher (a community project, world relief, an animal shelter, etc.) make a donation in the teacher’s name. Write a note from you and your child announcing this gift.

STARBUCKS AND MOVIES. I would be remiss if I did not pass along the sentiments of so many teachers I’ve heard from: Please tell parents and students that we really love Starbucks gift cards in any denomination, and movie tickets, too!

There you go, all you need to know to show your appreciation for the teachers in your family’s life in ways that will be enjoyed and budget-friendly, too.

©Copyright 2007 Mary Hunt