Apple or Trophy? 7 Teacher Appreciation Gifts

Apple or Trophy? 7 Teacher Appreciation Gifts

Seven Teacher Appreciation Gifts That Can't Go Wrong

You don't have to be an artist or a billionaire to show your teacher how much they mean to you. Here are some gifts you or your child can make for any occasion.

 

A Bucket of Sunshine

The key to this one is sticking to the colour yellow. With so many yellow gifts out there, the options are endless. Try to strike a balance between practical and thoughtful, though.

On the practical side, there are yellow notebooks, writing utensils, and cleaning supplies, like tissues and wipes. But on the thoughtful side, there are yellow M&Ms in bulk, sunflowers, coffee mugs, and other trinkets that would look perfect on a teacher's desk.

Tip: If your teacher is a bookworm, these library-card inspired socks are less than $11.

 

Dessert in a Jar

Does your teacher have a sweet tooth? Spoil them with dessert in a jar. Whether their favourite is brownies, strawberry shortcake, or s'mores, almost anything can be made in a mason jar. Just label the ingredients and add directions to a personalized label, and you're done.

 

A Personalized Trophy

Nothing says "Thank you" like a shiny keepsake that you can keep forever. But don't opt for a generic engraving. Instead, pick a superlative that you feel most applies to your teacher. The more personal, the better.

Some ideas might be:

  • Most likely to come to work with a new hairstyle
  • Most likely to win Jeopardy
  • Most likely to bring a pet to school
  • Most likely to accidentally be called Mom or Dad
  • Most likely to be mistaken for a student

A 'Teaching Essentials' Kit

It's like a first aid kit but for teachers. Replace the bandages and rubbing alcohol with cute paper clips, stamps, stickers, and washi tape to build a creative gift that your teacher will use year-round. Include chocolates or notes of encouragement for an added touch.

 

Classroom Decor

What makes your teacher tick? Do they have a favourite subject? Book? Movie? TV show? Hobby? Draw from their interests in picking out decor for the classroom. Or, go for a poster or picture frame that could inspire the whole class.

Feeling extra crafty? The handmade route could be the way to go. You could even recruit help from other students or parents, but don't let the teacher know. Here are 12 ideas to get you started.

 

Books

Almost every teacher has a bookshelf in their classroom. What's missing? Are there copies that need to be replaced? Is there a series you think your teacher or other students might really enjoy? Donate to the classroom collection.

Or even better â€” get your teacher a gift card so they can pick for themselves.

 

Coffee

It never fails. Teachers are incredibly busy, and their work doesn't stop at the end of the school day. Keep in mind the countless hours spent planning, grading, and meeting with parents and higher-ups to ensure that you or your child receives the best education.

Keep your teacher going with either a gift card to a coffee shop or their favourite brew that they can make at home. And if they're decaf, tea is a great alternative.

 

Final Notes

You don't need a reason to show some extra gratitude to your teacher. A little bit of thought will go a long way in planning the right teacher appreciation gifts. And if you're looking for more gift ideas, shop our selection of school-related awards.