5 Gift Ideas for that Special Teacher

Teachers are the future of our nation, or else where would we be without them? Giving a great Christmas gift to your mentor is one of the simplest and easiest ways to show your appreciation, also solidifying the fact that you really enjoyed learning under them. But in all seriousness, how many apples, coffee mugs, or photo frames do they really need? Here are 5 gift ideas for your favorite teacher that are useful and classy.

Books.

Chances are, if someone is passionate about teaching, they are also passionate about learning. What better way to show your appreciation by giving a teacher books or a gift certificate to a book store? Online retailers such as Amazon.com offer gift cards as well, so finding an outlet shouldn't be that difficult.

Rather, the more difficult aspect to determine is, what to give? As you get to know your teacher, you should inquire about his or her interests, and make a decision based on these factors.

Gift Certificates to a Local Salon or Spa.

Women love it when you pamper them (as they enjoy pampering themselves as well). So if your teacher is a woman, remember to find a nice place in town, and give them the gift of being able to treat themselves to something they probably wouldn't normally do gives your teacher an exciting change from daily routine. Going to a salon and getting manicures and pedicures can cost upwards of $100 a trip, and by sending your teacher to pamper mania, she will be truly appreciative (sorry buddy, you're going to be spending that $100+).

If your teacher is a male, you can also give the gift of relaxation by sending them on a trip to the massage parlor or sauna. We love massages.

Items for the classroom.

Especially if you have small children, their teachers will be teaching class on a tight budget, as many teachers use their own money to buy supplies for the classroom. Whether it be plants to keep the room lively, supplies such as markers, crayons, or paper, or even a new overhead projector, these types of things will be greatly appreciated, and it will help your students learn better.

But remember, always remember to tell your children to ask the teacher what he or she most needs for a classroom. You won't want to buy something that's not needed.

Magical Experiences.

Depending on what subject your teacher teaches, you might want to give the gift of an experience, rather than a material item. If your teacher teaches music, then you might want to buy him or her tickets to the next musical concert. Likewise, if he or she enjoys dances or theatre, you can buy tickets to one of the hottest show in town. These are gifts of memory, and they are sure to make an impression long after the performance is over. Much better than something that will get left in the corner to gather dust.

Personal Crafts.

If you're good at knitting, make a sweater or scarf. If you're good at sewing, make a pillow. Although the gift exchange seems to be diluted with items such as these, there is good reason for it. The truth of the matter is that gifts are a sign of thankfulness with respect to care and friendship, not material possessions. People have enough money that they can go out and buy what they want for themselves, so they really don't need you to buy them things they need or want.

Rather, you should think of gift giving as a time to show your appreciation from your heart rather than from your wallet. 3 year olds making macaroni portraits? Very cute, very emotional, and a great gift. Humans thrive off of emotional happiness more than anything else. If you're thankful, it comes from the mind. So if you can give a gift that incites thankfulness and appreciation rather than plopping down a gift card anyone can spit out, you show that you've taken the time to think about what this person really enjoys.

This Holiday season, thank your teachers. They have helped you progress in life in more ways than one.