5 Best Teacher Gifts

I think we can all agree that teachers are the great unsung heroes of our communities.  Not only do they educate our youngins, but they teach them how to work, play well with others, wipe their noses, tie their shoes and they do this all without hanging them out the window by their toes… That is the most amazing part.

Now then, we all know that our teachers are woefully underpaid…especially when you consider what all they must endure every day.  It is more important than ever that, when possible, we remember our teachers and educators with a nice gift.   To help you choose the right gift, we polled our teachers to find out what THEY want this holiday season.

1. Something for the classroom – with budget cuts teachers are left on their own to supply their classrooms so when giving gifts, think of things they can use.  For example, books that they can read to their class, art supplies, office supplies and classroom decorations are always appreciated.  You may find a greater need for these items with younger/newer teachers.
2. Personalized note cards and note pads – teachers are always writing notes and having something cute and personalized makes note writing that much more enjoyable.
3.  Gift Cards – think Target, Wal Mart or a local grocery store. 
4. Personalized Gifts to use in the classroom – items like a monogrammed clip board is always a useful gift so is a personalized insulated water or coffee mug
5. Home Décor – cute picture frames, holiday platters, cute nut dishes or serving bowls – but err on the side of caution.  Nothing too overly decorated, keep things light and simple

What Teachers do NOT want

When we polled our teachers they were almost as vocal about what they did not want as they were about what they would like to receive.  The list is short but simple

1. Anything with TEACHER on it -  Same applies to apples, rulers, chalk – if you are going to give them a gift, make it something personal for them, not for the teaching profession.
2. Fragrances – since everyone’s taste is different it is best to stay clear from anything fragranced.  If you really feel compelled to give a candle, some nice soap or other fragranced item, make sure the scent is VERY light and not overly flowery.  Look for fragrances that include vanilla, linen or crisp in the title

Regardless of what you give, all teachers responded that they are very appreciative of any gesture.  Depending on your station in life (are you just starting out or is Warren Buffet asking you for a loan?) plan on spending $10 - $15 per teacher, per child.  If you are a little shy on funds or have a whole brood of kids each with a dozen teachers then do something small like a $5 gift card to Starbucks or Target. 

Whatever you do – be sure to remember your teachers with a nice gift.  After all, if it weren’t for them your kids would be home with you all day trying to learn calculus and the history of the Mesolithic period.