Gift Ideas for Teachers

Is your child struggling with his grades and you are looking for a way to bribe his teacher? Do you find one of your kid's teachers attractive, and you want a way to get his/her attention; or do you simply want to tell a teacher that you appreciate all the work that they do? Whatever your motive is, finding a great gift for a teacher is easy, and doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.

Apples- OK, so the apple is the most clichéd gift to give a teacher, but almost every parent is guilty of giving a teacher the gift of an apple...in a roundabout way. In the lunch time school economy, the apple is unable to be traded. Since most kids don't want the apple, and they can't trade it away, in an astonishing display of understanding of opportunity cost, many kids will just give the apple to the teacher to gain their favor. The kid doesn't have to eat their fruit, and the teacher gets free food, everyone wins! So keep sending those apples parents!

Fruit Baskets- This is a more direct way to show your appreciation with fruit. A small gift basket shouldn't cost too much, especially if the fruit is in season, and can come pre-assembled at your local grocery store. Extra credit if the basket is homemade and customized with all the teacher's favorites!

Gift Cards- Nowadays, much of what teachers use in the classroom has to be purchased by the teacher. This is especially true for teachers in poorer districts. A gift card to a local store like Walmart could go a long way in helping take some of the financial burden off the teachers shoulders.

Books- Many teachers have small libraries in their classrooms. These may be for the teacher's personal use, or can be for the kids to look through during quiet time or recess. Why not make a contribution? Note: Don't give a teacher a dictionary, unless it is one of those super deluxe dictionaries. Some teachers may take this the wrong way.

Coffee mugs-Associated Content's own Robert Walsh has some pretty strong opinions about coffee mugs, but they can be an affordable and easy way to show your appreciation. Just don't get a teacher a "#1 teacher" mug. Chances are they already have one.

Assorted Supplies- Schools are always short on necessary supplies like pencils, staples, markers, etc.. Buying these supplies for a teacher is a good way to help out, and would be a much appreciated gift.

Hand Sanitizer- This is the perfect gift for anyone who works in a teaching environment. Children can be walking, talking germ distribution agents. Why not help out a teacher and give the gift of hand sanitizer. This can help them avoid having to use their paid sick leave while they are actually sick.

Party Supplies- I don't know about you, but when I was in school, we were constantly having parties. Things like plates, cups, utensils and decorations were in high demand. Providing these items for a teacher will make these occasions less stressful for him/her, and would be most welcome.

Prizes- Contests are a good way to motivate the children to learn and compete. Providing prizes for these contests a good way to help out the teacher.

Something personal- This is by far the easiest gift to give a teacher. You could write them a letter, send a card, or even invite the teacher over for dinner. Things like this will show a teacher that their work is appreciated.

Places you can purchase gifts from:
Walmart
Target
michaels
Barnes & Noble