Teachers have been asked to do so much since the pandemic started — learning to teach our children virtually practically overnight, working hard to keep our children on track, and working more closely with parents than ever before. How can we ever thank them for helping us through?
Heartfelt and thoughtful gifts feel like the way to go this National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 3-7.
Here are five simple ideas to show your appreciation for your child's teacher:
1. A Thank-You Note
Teachers love to hear what your child has to say from their heart. Here's a fun printable to make it easy for your child to write a letter. You can write one too. Go one step further and write one to the principal too, explaining why you believe your child's teacher is exceptional. Use specific examples of how the teacher has influenced your child’s learning. Who doesn’t like to look great in front of their boss?
2. A Gift Card
A gift card is always a great way to show your appreciation.
3. Classroom Items
Whiteboard markers, erasers, scissors, pencils, sharpeners, decorative pieces, hand soap … all will be appreciated. Ask your teacher for a wish list or check Amazon to see if one is already started there! Teachers often spend their own money on school supplies, so this is an opportunity to help them in a practical way that they'll appreciate.
4. A Thoughtful Basket
Find out what your child's teacher loves to snack on and make them a nice basket filled with their favorite treats!
5. A Beach Bag
Summer break is near, so it's the perfect time to prepare for the beach! Get a nice beach towel, some sunblock, flip flops and a good book and put them in a beach bag! These items will surely get put to use and offer a nice twist to the usual teacher appreciation gifts.
I love this idea from biracialbookworms of giving a small gift every day of teacher appreciation week
Monday- Personalized Coffee mug with personal, handwritten thank you note from you as parents and one from your child)
Tuesday– Spa or fruit basket (Buy or make your own)
Wednesday– Humpday sweets- send in sugar (homemade or in a box; they don’t need 10; just one is plenty and appreciated!
Thursday– Personalized water bottle (bonus, fill with individually sized drink mixes like Gatorade or Crystal Light) or chapstick/lip balm. (Best $2-3 you ever spent on a teacher who talks all day!)
Friday– School supplies or a gift card so the teacher can buy what they need.
We are so grateful for all the teachers out there. We see you. Thank you for all your hard work!
