Year-round, teachers put so much time and energy into shaping your kids’ lives. In so many ways, these heroes are the backbones of society. They contribute not just to our children’s education, but also to their sense of purpose, self-confidence, and desire to succeed and carve out a happy, healthy, and successful future. Teachers instill a sense of purpose in your little ones, and they truly deserve to be recognized for it.
What better excuse to give teachers a special treat during the holiday season? There are so many examples of thoughtful gift ideas that can make their lives easier and their days brighter. Maybe it’s something sweet, like a chocolate box that you know they’ll savor, or a gift card to their favorite coffee shop tucked into a giant mug. You could even give a personalized Christmas ornament as a more permanent expression of your gratitude and appreciation. Here are just a few ideas that are sure to make them smile.
Odds are your child’s teacher hauls the same heavy load of everyday essentials in the same bag each day without fail. Over time, that bag is likely to suffer the wrath of regular wear and tear. Rips, snags, snarls, and general loss of structural integrity can make the bag decidedly less than appealing to hoist around all year. That’s a big problem for the teacher who carries around heavy textbooks, a tablet, a laptop, and other workplace essentials.
To the rescue comes a roomy and durable canvas tote bag. It’s the perfect choice for a teacher who likely doesn’t have time to find the ideal bag. Canvas bags are sturdy and reliable, and provide plentiful space for all those workplace essentials. You can even choose to personalize it with the teacher’s initials for an extra-special finishing touch. This is one gift you can be certain will be used throughout the year.
For the teacher who plays a major role in your child’s life, it’s perfectly fine and suitable to give a gift that’s a little more personal. Wearable items are typically reserved for those whom you’re closest with, but giving winter accessories to a teacher is a thoughtful way to express your appreciation while also giving the gift of much-needed comfort and coziness.
You may choose to give something soft and simple, like an easy scarf to complement their coats and jackets throughout the season. If you’re friendly, consider making it a matching set with a hat and a pair of gloves. Winter accessories are vital throughout this period, so you can be certain the teacher will make good use of them right away.
There’s always room for fresh flowers or a hearty plant. Not only do these gifts have the ability to brighten moods and transform the home, but they also show your appreciation in the most beautiful and memorable way. You can trust that your child’s teacher will be grateful to receive a Christmas wreath to hang in the home or on the front door.
If you’d prefer, consider giving a festive poinsettia or another plant to keep in the classroom until the holiday break. Plants and flowers are simply thoughtful — and they’re also relatively straightforward, simple, pressure-free gift ideas that are easier to purchase for those you may not know quite as well.
Decorative hand towels are perfect for teachers who spend a big chunk of the day washing and sanitizing their hands, cleaning their desks and surfaces around the room, and generally making sure their classrooms are spotless and sanitary for their students. There’s no question that it takes a toll on their hands!
Why not surprise them with a pretty towel? It’s useful, unexpected, and festive all at once. Choose from a variety of different styles. You can keep the holiday theme going with towels emblazoned with trees, presents, or cardinals, for example, or try something plush, fluffy, and luxurious enough to fit into a spa environment. No matter what you choose, you can be sure it will be a hit — and a most welcome surprise.
No matter what you choose to give, take your time putting it together. Ask your child for input and insight as to what the teacher enjoys — maybe your young detective has spied the teacher sipping coffee from a certain bakery or always having a certain type of candy on the desk. Whatever it is, your child will feel a sense of pride in helping put together a holiday surprise for someone who has made such a significant difference in your little one’s life. Have your child write a little thank you message in the card, too. It’s destined to be a gift the teacher won’t forget.