I’m so excited to share these teacher appreciation gift ideas. My background is in education and I’m a former teacher and counselor. So, I know first hand some of the best gift ideas for teachers! This year, Teacher Appreciation Week is Monday May 2nd- Friday May 6th. During this time, it’s so important to show teachers how much we love and support them. The last couple of years have been tough for most teachers. There’s been so many changes within the school system, making things difficult for teachers. So, this is the perfect time to sprinkle your child’s teacher with a thank you gift!
During Teacher Appreciation Week, typically the PTA or principal will put together a week long of special activities to show how much teachers are appreciated. When I was a teacher, during teacher appreciation week, we had breakfast from Chick-Fil-A on one day, donuts on another day, and catered lunch on that last day. Typically, places in the community will help sponsor Teacher Appreciation Week. If you have the time, you can ask the school’s principal or PTA if there’s any way you can help during Teacher Appreciation Week.
The gift ideas that I am sharing are budget friendly, personalized, and useful. Here are my top 5 teacher appreciation gift ideas.
1. Gift Cards
Most teachers will agree that one of their favorite gifts is getting gift cards. Gift cards are great because it allows teachers to truly get whatever they want or need. I typically stick with getting gift cards from Target, Walmart, or TJ Maxx. If you want to get a little more creative, you can have your child do a simple DIY craft to be used as a gift card holder. Also, an electronic gift card is an option for virtual teachers.
2. Handwritten Notes
A handwritten note is something teachers will really appreciate. Teachers put in a lot of hours before, during, and after school. So a note expressing how much you appreciate them for taking care of your child and helping your child learn, will be greatly appreciated. In addition, you can send an email to the Principal of the school expressing your gratitude and appreciation for your child’s teacher. Be specific on how your child’s teacher has been helpful. If you want to be a little more creative, you can have your child also write a sweet note to their teacher.
3. Classroom Books
If your child is in preschool or elementary school, gifting the teacher with some special books for the class is a great gift idea. These can be age appropriate books that you have at your house or you can buy some new books. Recently, I found some really cute teacher appreciation books at Target that would be perfect for preschool or elementary school teachers.
Thank You, Teacher from The Very Hungry Caterpillar
4. Favorite Things Tote Bag
Typically, teachers will fill out a “favorite things list” at the beginning of the school year. You can ask the principal or send the teacher a quick email to get a simple list of their favorite things. While I was at TJ Maxx, I found these cute reusable tote bags. The tote bag can be filled with some of their favorite items. Then they will also be able to reuse the tote bag to carry books, go shopping, etc. I love this idea because it’s more personalized and you can get the teacher a variety of their favorite things. I don’t like to assume that a teacher is going to like a coffee mug, notebooks, or any of the typical things we see. So take the time to get that favorite things list and stuff the bag with their favorite goodies.
5. Volunteer Time
If you have the time, volunteering your time goes a long way. When I was a teacher I would always ask if any parents wanted to come read a book to my class. The kids always enjoy seeing a new face and it gives the teacher a quick break while the guest is reading. There are so many ways you can volunteer your time, I suggest asking the teacher in what way you can help in the classroom for a day.
Things to Remember
- Sometimes we forget about other important teachers. The assistant teacher, PE teacher, music teacher, STEM teacher, etc. Find a way to also show your support for those teachers.
- Try to show your support for teachers all year long. I typically love doing something special for my child’s teacher at the beginning of the year, Christmas, and at the end of the year. Make that a habit every school year.
- Stay connected with your child’s teacher throughout the year. Email the teacher to see if there’s anything you can do from home to help support your child’s learning. Teachers appreciate when it’s a team effort. Be sure to check out 5 Ways to Explore Spring with Kids. Spring is the perfect time to have fun and learn at home.
I hope this was helpful as you find ways to show your appreciation for your kid’s teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week. Also, remember that you don’t have to spend money to show your appreciation to your child’s teacher. If this blog post inspired you, be sure to let me know!
XO,
Ashley
