Ways to Show Appreciation for Your Child's Teacher

When my daughter was ready for preschool, I researched programs and interviewed several schools before I found the perfect one-and the perfect teacher. After all, I would be entrusting my child to someone I didn't really know, and these are the rare years where we can determine who our children's educators will be. I was so grateful when I finally found the perfect teachers: someone who would educate my child with equal measures of kindness, compassion, knowledge, and structure. According to a poll conducted by the National Educator's Association (NEA), nearly half of all teachers say that a simple "thank you" is the best gift they can receive. Here are some other ways to show your child's teachers just how much you appreciate them!

1) Volunteer in your child's classroom. Teachers can always use an extra pair of hands.

2) Assemble a booklet of quotes, such as "I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well" (Alexander the Great), or "The best teachers teach from the heart, not from the book " (Author Unknown). You can search for quotes on the internet.

3) Create a handmade card based around a quote. Better yet, have your child create a card with original artwork.

4) Your child and classmates can join forces to create a special group project for a beloved teacher. Some ideas: a class DVD compiled from photos taken throughout the year; a quilt or collage made from handprints cut from fabric or paper; a set of note cards created from the children's artwork and favorite sayings about their teacher.

5) A gift card to a bookstore, restaurant, or for a relaxing neck & shoulder massage is sure to be appreciated by any hardworking teacher.

6) Write a letter to the principal letting him know how hard the teacher is working and the difference she's made in your child's life.

7) Nominate your child's teacher for an award. TeachersCount.org has a list of teaching awards. Your child can also submit a story of appreciation to their Student Stories section.

8) Join the PTA and the NEA in thanking your child's teacher in a BIG way: they're creating "The Nation's Largest Teacher Thank-You Card" from thank you notes and cards collected from thousands of students, parents, celebrities, and individuals across America. Visit www.teacherthankyoucard.org to find out how you can participate.

9) Visit a site like www.pta.org or www.teacherscount.org for more tips on how to honor and appreciate the special teacher in your child's life.

Teachers perform one of the most vital roles in our children's lives. Be sure to let them know just how essential they are in making a difference. A simple "thank you"--from you and your child--goes a long way.