First of all: no, you don’t have to buy a gift for your child’s teacher. Or preschool instructor, or daycare provider. But this is a great time of year to acknowledge someone who is doing a great job and making a difference in your child’s life.
As a teacher myself, I am often asked by family and friends for gift ideas, and for that reason I wrote:
“What Teachers Really Want For Christmas” (Peterborough, Northumberland and Lakeridge Kids, Dec/Jan 2009/2010) (Click on link for complete article.)
We’re both very practical, and she’s a “flowers die, chocolates are bad for you” kind of gal (her husband sticks with jewelery, if you’re wondering) so every year I just ask her what she wants and then I buy it. Might sound unoriginal, but it works for us.
As for teacher gifts, I can promise you that no matter your budget, you can never go wrong with a heartfelt note. Of course we teachers can afford to buy things for ourselves, and while all Christmas offerings are gratefully received, it really is the thought that counts. Those meaningful letters that tell me I’m doing a good job honestly mean the most. There’s nothing like starting the holidays knowing that I’m appreciated, and this sort of affirmation is truly priceless.
For more ideas (including tips for do-it-yourself, budget, and charitable gifts) and a section where teachers share their favourite gift ever, be sure to check out “What Teachers Really Want For Christmas!” from Peterborough, Northumberland and Lakeridge Kids.
I’d love to hear your gift ideas for teachers past and present…and if there are educators out there who want to share their favourites as well, please feel free!
Great post! Personally I go for the gift cards. Tim Hortons is one of my fav's I give out especially to teachers. I think most teachers are already bombarded with trinkets and Christmas ornaments…especially if they have been teaching for a number of years. You just can't go wrong with a gift card! A personalized note is always a nice addition too written by your child!
I usually like to give gift cards such as Chapters or Kelseys. My girls love to write a nice letter to their teacher as well.
By the way, l buy the jewellry for my husband to give me:)
(And l love your clothing store certificates. Who doesn't like buying clothes for themselves?)
Gift cards for Chapters or Timmies are great and don't take up space! I also love baked goods for the same reason. I have enough candles, mugs and trinkets to start my own shop, and I've only been teaching for a few years!
The funniest gift story was when a friend and I were both teaching Kindergarten at the same school. One of her students arrived in the morning and announced on the playground: "I've got your gift for you Mrs. C.! And you're gonna like it; it's BOOZE!!!" And she did. ;P
I like your idea of donating to the classroom (ie books)Last year I restocked the jk/sk teacher's stamps, stickers, tissues, fun erasers etc in a basket. She was really appreciative. Other years I gave jars of jam or preserves. If possible I think it's wonderful to buy local or support another mompreneur
Personally I think that you should give a teacher or daycare provider something. No, I don't think that you should have to make yourself broke doing so, although some sort of acknowledgment.
From doing daycare, your kids are always worse then what you think. An LCBO gift card works just fine…..
Linked to this post on my blog today 🙂