Teacher Appreciation Week: True Confessions of a Real Teacher

Teacher Appreciation Week starts on May 6th and it’s time to show your child’s teacher some love. As a teacher myself, I know the hardships we go through on a daily basis and it feels great to be recognized for the hard work and dedication we put forth with your child. These little acts of kindness are the fuel that keeps our engines going and the motivation we need to get past those tough days, so parents, gift kindly and read below for some teacher-approved gifts!

Try Something Different

The most important thing about Teacher Appreciation Week is knowing your teacher and what she likes. When I taught kindergarten, a colleague of mine who is a beach fanatic received a beach wagon stuffed with all types of beach-related goodies. She still uses this beach wagon to date and talks about how this has been the best gift she’s ever gotten.

For teachers, the gifts that mostly stand out are the ones that are unique and different. One school year, during teacher appreciation week, I had parents buy me breakfast AND lunch for the entire week! My classroom parents created a sign in sheet and organized the whole thing! I was so delighted to see how much time and effort was taken to do this for me. 

Here is a short list of some unique gift ideas:

– Personalized basket with items of the teacher’s liking
– Buy them breakfast or lunch
– Full-day spa certificate 
– A plant with a tag that says, “Thank you for helping me grow!”

Let It Come From The Heart

Nothing warms a teacher’s heart more than a thoughtful gift that evidently shows someone took their time to create it. Most teachers have a creative side and appreciate the time it takes to create something. 

My students one year created a book, and in this book, they each wrote (and drew) a page explaining why I was the best teacher in the world. This is a keepsake that takes me back in time every time I look at it. It brings me memories of the good times I had with that class and it is so fulfilling.

Here are some thoughtful gift ideas:

– Handwritten notes from students
– Personalized items such as cups, clipboards, pencil jar, etc.
– Bake them something sweet
– Make a sugar scrub with their favorite essential oils

…But Honestly, This Is What We REALLY Want

Thoughtful and unique gifts are great but take it from a teacher herself, gift cards rule over anything! It may seem empty and impersonal, but believe me when I tell you, teachers LOVE gift cards! This lovely rectangular piece of plastic gives us the freedom to use it as we please. We can share the wealth with the family or we can pamper ourselves to a much-needed treat. 

Teacher-approved gift cards:

– Target
– Starbucks
– Bed Bath and Beyond
– Publix
– Restaurants
– Home Depot

Have you created something special for a teacher? I would love to hear your ideas!