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65 Best Teacher Gifts in Every Price Range for 2024

Give teachers gifts they’ll actually appreciate and use.

Shopping for teacher gifts can be tricky. How do you know what they really want? Here’s the good news: We’ve got the answers! We spoke with 120 teachers from around the country to learn what makes the best teacher gifts for every style and price range. Here’s what we found out.

5 Tips for Choosing Teacher Gifts

We asked teachers to share their tips for finding the best gifts, and they had lots of helpful advice.

Simple Gifts From the Heart Are Best

“Teachers are easy to please,” says senior English teacher Cheryl M. “Any gift matters to us. We love cards and pictures! It doesn’t have to be expensive!” Lisa K. agrees: “Keep it simple. Anything is appreciated. A student-written card or a kind message means a lot.”

Personalize Your Gifts

“Think of them as a person as well as an educator,” urges Beth Jarzabek, a middle school reading teacher. Several teachers we asked encouraged folks to find out what teachers like to do in their free time, and giving a gift related to that. As one second grade teacher from Virginia advises, “Be intentional with the gift and get things that they like and will actually use. If you were with kids all day what would make you feel good at the end of the day?”

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Many of the teachers who responded to our survey said it’s absolutely okay to find out what teachers like in advance, so you can choose a gift accordingly. “You could have them fill out a questionnaire at the beginning of the school year so you could get to know what their favorite things are,” suggests Illinois teacher Amanda Christensen. “Our PTA does this at the beginning of each school year and provides it to the public so everyone has an idea of the perfect gifts for each staff member!”

Be Mindful of Preferences and Restrictions

Asking in advance can also help you avoid gifting something a person truly dislikes or won’t use. “Please do not assume a teacher will appreciate food, coffee, alcohol,” warns high school teacher Ann Cox. “Many people have special diets due to health reasons and might not be able to enjoy your gift at all.” This is especially important when it comes to food gifts. “I’ve had parents buy me lunch and it’s meat and I don’t eat meat,” shares a first grade teacher from Texas. “I feel like it’s just a waste.”

When in Doubt, Think Practical

It might be better to take a pass on those cute little teacher tchotchkes, unless they really seem relevant. “We always appreciate the thoughtfulness of any gift, but we get rid of a lot of stuff that we don’t want to sit around and cause clutter,” admits one sixth grade teacher from Maryland. Instead, teachers tend to prefer practical or consumable items, especially those that fit their own interests and inclinations.

Best Teacher Gifts, According to Teachers

• Thank You Notes

Best Gift Cards for Teachers

Food and drink gifts for teachers, classroom and desk supplies teacher gifts, apparel and jewelry gifts for teachers, self-care gifts teacher gifts, more of the best teacher gift ideas, most-appreciated teacher gift: thank you notes.

“One of the teacher gifts that made me feel most appreciated is handwritten thank-you notes or cards from students,” shares a Texas math teacher. “The heartfelt words written by students convey deep appreciation and warmth, which makes me feel truly valued and encouraged.” In fact, most teachers we surveyed say they appreciate a handwritten thank-you note over just about anything else .

Personalized Thank-You Note

You don’t need to get fancy, but if you want to add a little something extra, you could buy one of these awesome greeting cards for teachers or use these printable thank-you cards for teachers to express your message.

When we ask real educators about the best gifts for teachers, the number-one answer is always the same: gift cards. They don’t need to be for a huge amount: $5 at Starbucks will get most teachers a cup of coffee, and with $10 at Dunkin’ Donuts, they can grab a snack too. If you feel like a gift card isn’t enough, we’ve also rounded up some creative ways to present these gifts for teachers.

Top 5 Teacher Gift Card Picks

We surveyed more than 350 teachers to find out what their most-wanted gift cards are. Here are their top five choices; see the full list of teacher gift card picks here .

• Amazon Gift Card
• Target Gift Card
• Starbucks Gift Card
• VISA Gift Card
• TpT (Teachers Pay Teachers) Gift Card

Teacher Gift Card Holders

Some people worry that gift cards don’t feel “personal” enough. If that’s the case, you can always spring for a creative or personalized gift card holder. Here are some of our favorites.

Free Printable Gift Card Holders

Our free printable gift card holders are themed to match your cards! There are options for Amazon, Target, Starbucks, and any other gift card you choose.

Get it: Free Printable Gift Card Holders

Teacher Appreciation Week Gift Card Holder

This one is designed specifically for Teacher Appreciation Week. Buy this digital file once, and you’ll have a printable you can use year after year.

Buy it: Teacher Appreciation Week Gift Card Holder at Etsy

Coffee-Themed Gift Card Holders

If you’re gifting a Starbucks or Dunkin’ card, these holders are absolutely perfect!

Buy it: Coffee-Themed Gift Card Holders at Amazon

Pencil Gift Card Holder

This affordable set nets you 24 of these pencil shaped card holders. The front and back both have plenty of room to add a personalized note of thanks.

Buy it: Pencil Gift Card Holder at Amazon

Clipboard Gift Card Holder

This gift card holder is absolutely adorable, and it’s reusable too. Your teacher can use it to pass on the love, or tuck notes or pictures inside the slot.

Buy it: Clipboard Gift Card Holder at Etsy

Flower Gift Card Holders

These holders are so pretty, and the sentimental messages help you express your true appreciation.

Buy it: Flower Gift Card Holders at Amazon

Treats, snacks, and beverages are often welcome, but remember to find out about any preferences or restrictions before gifting food or drink.

Have lunch or coffee delivered

Teachers like Christina H. love “food or drinks to enjoy during the school day (a breakfast taco, a coffee, a drink).” Ask their preferences and take orders in advance. Then bring teachers lunch or a delicious pick-me-up on a day and time that works best for them..

No time to do your own deliveries? That’s why Grubhub and DoorDash exist!

Godiva Truffles

Most teachers will love any chocolate you give, but many of them stressed the benefits of quality over quantify. If you really want to make them feel special, splurge on a gourmet option like Godiva. These are perfect for savoring slowly while binging Netflix, or rewarding themselves after turning in their final grades on time!

Buy it: Godiva Chocolatier Patisserie Dessert Truffles at Amazon

Their Favorite Drink

This is an affordable but highly appreciated gift. Pair a case of their favorite potable with a thank-you note and your child’s teacher will treasure you forever. Not sure what their favorite beverage is? Ask your child what drink they see on their teacher’s desk after lunch … they’ll know.

Buy it: Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar at Target

YETI Rambler 14-oz. Insulated Mug

Teachers rarely get to sit down and enjoy a whole cup of coffee in peace. That’s why insulated mugs are must-have teacher gifts. This YETI mug is a top-notch choice, keeping your brew hot for as long as it takes you to get to the bottom. It holds enough coffee to get a teacher from first bell to at least their lunch break!

Buy it: YETI Rambler 14-oz. Insulated Mug at Amazon

Ember Temperature-Control Smart Mug

The best gifts for teachers don’t have to be pricey, but it doesn’t hurt. This is definitely a bit of a splurge, but the Ember coffee mug not only keeps your coffee hot, it maintains it at the exact right temperature. Set your desired temp using the app, and Ember will ensure your coffee or tea is perfect from the first sip to the last.

Buy it: Ember Smart Mug at Amazon

David’s Brownies and Cakes

If fourth grade teacher Caitlin Veise was giving a gift to a fellow teacher, she’d bake them one of their favorite treats. No time to bake yourself? Amazon will deliver this delightful assortment of sweet treats for you!

Buy it: David’s Assorted Brownie and Crumb Cake Basket at Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Need a good gift from the whole class? The Keurig K-Mini is one of those teacher gift ideas they’ll be thanking you for over and over again. (Check out more of our coffee station ideas .)

Buy it: Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon

Edible Arrangement

Healthy snacks can be delicious (and beautiful) too! Edible Arrangements are always popular, and they offer lots of yummy treats that are good for you too.

Buy it: Thank You Delicious Fruit at Edible Arrangements

Real Teacher Story: “I know I’m not the only teacher who feels better having a stash of snacks in their cupboard. I like to know that I’ve got something there to offer a hungry student or grab if I forget my lunch.” Snacks will never not be appreciated, and this box offers an excellent variety.

Buy it: Cravebox at Amazon

K-Cup Variety Pack

Who doesn’t love coffee, especially Starbucks? Gift your favorite teacher or multiple teachers this variety pack, which is sure to have something for everyone. These K-cup pods will unquestionably be a welcome addition to the teacher’s room!

Buy it: Starbucks Variety K-Cups – 40 Pack at Amazon

Crumbl Cookies

California fifth grade teacher Nancy Cowan was once wowed by a gift of custom-decorated sugar cookies. Another great option is that iconic Crumbl Cookie pastel pink box, full of the most decadent cookies around. No store near you? Crumbl Cookies ships nationwide!

Buy it: Crumbl Cookies at Crumbl

These are all the rage now, and perfect for packing healthy and delicious teacher lunches . Personalize yours by adding their name with permanent vinyl lettering, and fill it with delicious snacks and candy for a practical, delicious gift they’ll love.

Buy it: Bento Box at Amazon

If pre-K teacher Alicia Worthy were buying a gift for a fellow teacher, she’d definitely go practical: “Something useful that they have specifically shared that they need and will use.” If you can personalize it, so much the better. “I love cats and I also use sticky notes a lot, “says Montessori teacher Donna Paul, “so the best gift I ever received was a personalized sticky notepad with a cat on it.” Here are some popular practical gifts for teachers.

Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator

Want to become a teacher’s hero? Gift them their own personal laminator! This model from Scotch with Never Jam technology is one of our favorites . Here’s what one teacher thinks: “LOVE! It surpassed my expectations. It’s nearly silent! … It also laminates fairly quickly! I would absolutely recommend.”

Buy it: Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator (TL906) at Amazon

Personalized Stationery

This personalized pad is perfect for writing notes to colleagues, parents, or students. Teachers can use it in their personal lives too.

Buy it: Personalized Notepad at Etsy

Whiskey River Soap Company Pencils for Teachers

Teachers will want to make sure they hang on to these pencils for themselves! The clever sayings on each will make them giggle. One teacher shares, “So cute! Love the sayings because as a teacher I have personally felt each one. One of the best gifts for teachers to brighten their day!”

Buy it: Whiskey River Soap Company Pencils for Teachers at Amazon

Phone/Tablet Stand

Practical and fun, this smart stand adjusts to hold phones or tablets upright so teachers can easily go hands-free. It comes in tons of hues too, so you can get one in your school colors or your teacher’s favorite shade.

Buy it: Honsky Thumbs-Up Phone Stand at Amazon

Label Maker

Part of a teacher’s job (and one many of them absolutely love!) includes organization. Label makers will definitely upgrade their organization systems. Think of the endless possibilities!

Buy it: Label Maker at Amazon

Custom Door Sign

Multiple teachers told us they’ve received cool signs to hang in their classrooms. When a sign is personalized, teachers will hang it with pride. Sites like Etsy offer tons of options to fit every teacher’s style and personality.

Buy it: Crayon Teacher Door Sign at Etsy

Multi-Tool Pen

A pen that’s also a screwdriver, bottle opener, LED light, and more? That’s a whole bunch of teacher gifts, all in one!

Buy it: SAPGIF Multi-Tool Pen at Amazon

Personalized Library Stamp

Teachers build their classroom libraries with loving care. Help them keep their selections from disappearing with a personalized stamp like this one. Real teacher review: “This stamp is very sturdy. I have had other custom stamps fall apart after a long session of classroom library building, but this is still going strong.” ( See more teacher stamps we love here .)

Buy it: Self-Inking Teacher Library Stamp at Amazon

Flower Pens

Why is it that so many students never seem to have a pen handy? Teachers are usually willing to lend theirs out, but only if kids promise to return them at the end of class (except they never do). These flower pens solve the problem: it’s always easy to see who has a loaner!

Buy it: 16 Pcs Flower Pens at Amazon

Personalized Notebook

Real Teacher Story: “A group of students who gifted me a notebook this year. It meant so much to me that I wanted to use it for something special. I decided to write down funny moments that happen throughout the years and give it to them for a graduation gift.” This one is adorable, can be personalized, and is less than $15.

Buy it: Personalized Notebook at Etsy

Magnets are great for both fridges at home and whiteboards at school, making them one of our favorite little teacher gifts. This set is especially fun for English teachers and their fellow grammar geeks.

Buy it: Grammar Correction Bottle Cap Magnets at Etsy

Stuff they can wear or carry is another teacher favorite, especially when you take the time to find something personalized to their subject or interests. One of the most creative gifts Christina H. ever received? “Socks that had pictures of me and my students!”

Lots of teachers wear lanyards to hold their school IDs, keys, and all the other paraphernalia they need quick access to throughout the day. This is one of the best teacher gifts because you can get a lanyard to match their personality. We’ve got a whole selection to choose from for teachers of any subject here .

Buy it: Rock Nerdy Math Lanyard at Amazon

Personalized key chain

Keychains are really practical teacher gifts, since they usually lots of keys to keep track of. These simple personalized leather keychains are an easy and elegant gift for any teacher.

Buy it: Personalized Key Chain at Etsy

Be The Good Shirt

This fun shirt comes 10 different colors and has a fun retro vibe, with a message that embodies the philosophy of pretty much every teacher we know.

Buy it: Teacher Shirt at Etsy

Personalized Tote Bag

Since teachers often need to carry papers and other school supplies, what better gift than a tote bag or two? We love the personalization option.

Buy it: Personalized Tote Bag at Etsy

Teacher Bracelet

We love that this bracelet set is equally cute and affordable. Bonus: It will make your child’s heart swell with pride when they see their beloved teacher wearing it!

Buy it: Teacher Bracelet at Amazon

Ventured Living Hand Sanitizer Holder Set

Hand sanitizer is a teacher must-have, and they can clip these holders to their lanyard or belt, refilling as needed. They come in a cute floral pattern too. Here’s what one reviewer had to say: “I’m a teacher and this product is perfect to keep on my backpack. I can easily use it entering/leaving school, with peace of mind for sanitation. We are buying more for my teacher friends and family.”

Buy it: Ventured Living Hand Sanitizer Holder Set of 2 at Amazon

This bag is trendy and for good reason! It is a functional, fashionable version of a fanny pack. Your child’s teacher will love a gift that leaves their hands free while storing their phone, hand sanitizer, key card, and wallet. This one is simple but comes in tons of colors.

Buy it: Tinyat Belt Bag on Amazon

Book Stack Earrings

These adorable statement earrings are perfect to dress up any outfit, even on jeans day! When it’s a messy bun day, your child’s teacher will feel more put-together with these fun earrings.

Buy it: Book Stack Earrings at Amazon

Teacher Tie

Tie-loving teachers likely have an impressive collection, but there are so many unique options out there that make fantastic teacher gifts! ( Find more fun teacher ties here. )

Buy it: Math Tie at Amazon

Texas elementary teacher Brooke Blake loves it when people give her gifts that help her relax. Many other teachers agreed, noting that teaching can be stressful, so self-care gifts are often welcome.

Manicure or Pedicure

Real Teacher Story: “I consider it a real treat to get my nails done and normally that happens for me just twice in a school year. I get my nails done at the start of the year and again when it is time to break out those toes for sandal season. Gifting your teacher a manicure will make them want to find an excuse to use the document camera and spend more time pointing at things on the Smart Board!” A Pick Your Polish gift card can be used nationally at 15,000 different locations.

Buy it: Nail Gift Card at Pick Your Polish 

Everyone can use a little relaxation time! With this gift card, teachers can choose the services they are interested in and can use it at spas found nationally. (Check to make sure you have a location near you that accepts the gift card.)

Buy it: Spafinder Gift Card at Amazon 

L’Occitane Hand Cream Classics Trio Gift Set

Teachers tend to get a lot of bath and body products, so if you’re going to go that route, pick a high-quality, luxurious option so your gift will stand out. L’Occitane makes some of the best hand cream around, perfect for reviving hands that are dry and cracked from using sanitizer all day long. Buy this set and give it as-is, or split it up and pair each one with a gift card for three separate teacher gifts.

Buy it: L’Occitane Hand Cream Classics Trio Gift Set at Ulta Beauty

Shower Steamers

Teachers will love these shower steamers that make them feel a little more excited about their regular routine. These shower steamers have great reviews and offer a collection of calming scents to allow for relaxation.

Buy it: Shower Steamers at Amazon

Scented Candle

Be warned: these are really popular teacher gifts, so if you’re going to gift one, make it good quality and in a scent they’ll actually really enjoy.

Buy it: Voluspa Candle at Amazon

When it comes down to it, teachers appreciate any gift that shows you put some thought and effort into it. “Think outside the box,” recommends Carmen Class, a third grade teacher from New Jersey. Fifth grade teacher Melanie Stalworth probably says it best: “Pick from the heart.”

LEGO Flowers

Real Teacher Story: “I received a Lego house built to resemble a school with a figurine that represented me and a dinosaur to represent the student who built it.” So personal and fun!

If you want to give teachers a relaxing activity they’ll enjoy themselves, consider a set of LEGO flowers. Designed just for adults, these sets are popular and make amazing classroom decorations.

Buy it: LEGO Wildflowers Set at Amazon

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera

Adding pictures of fun moments in the classroom around the room would be such a nice personal touch to any teacher’s classroom. Then when the year is over, they’ll have photographic proof of the memories made that year.

Buy it: Fujifilm Mini 11 Instant Camera

Personalized Reel Viewer

Older teachers will especially love this one, with its cool retro appeal. Gather up a selection of photos with all their best teacher memories, and get a custom set of ViewMaster cards to cherish forever.

Buy it : Personalized Reel Viewer at Uncommon Goods

You’ll definitely want to ask about this first, but tickets to a movie, show, game, concert, or other event can be a really cool teacher gift. Find out what they love, and offer to get them a pair of tickets to enjoy with a partner or friend. (Not sure what they’d like? Ticketmaster makes gift cards!)

Buy it: Ticketmaster Gift Card

If you’ve got a garden, put together your own bouquet. Otherwise, brighten a teacher’s day with beautiful blooms from Bouqs. Choose from a variety of sizes and styles. These flowers are sourced directly from farmers who use sustainable growing practices like minimizing waste and recycling water.

Buy it: Farmers Choice Bouquet at Bouqs

Plants make great classroom decorations, and add some life even in the darkest months of winter. Choose a plant from a local nursery (ask for advice on good plants that need minimal care), or order an easy care favorite like this fiddle fig from an online supplier.

Buy it: Fiddle Fig Plant at Amazon

Lovepop Bouquet

Want something that will last longer than cut flowers? Lovepop’s paper bouquets are gorgeous, and make a gorgeous classroom display or home decor item.

Buy it: Cherry Blossom Bouquet at Lovepop

Personalized Letter Blanket

This would make an amazing group gift: a personalized blanket with a teacher thank you note they’ll keep forever! You choose your text, so your recipient will think of their students every time they snuggle up with this blanket.

Buy it: Personalized Letter Blanket at Uncommon Goods

Mini Fridge

Help teachers make the most of their much-needed break time by saving them a trip to the teachers’ lounge fridge. This little model is just big enough to hold some fizzy water and yogurt, exactly what teachers need for a midafternoon pick-me-up. ( Check out more terrific mini-fridge options here .)

Buy it: Frigidaire 6-Can Retro Beverage Fridge at Target

Beach-Ready Tote

Texas first-grade teacher MQ loved this gift: “A beach bag full of summer fun that I still l use—towel, sunscreen, travel tumbler, and canned drinks.” When they’re not at the beach, the tote can double as an extra teacher bag.

Buy it: Dejaroo Mesh Sand-Free Beach Tote at Amazon

Beloved Book

Many teachers shared that some of their favorite gifts were books, whether personal favorites from the person who gifted it, or something chosen especially for them. Try asking your teacher if they have an Amazon Wishlist with their favorite books on it so you know you’re buying something they’ll really love!

Buy it: Lila Greer, Teacher of the Year at Amazon

Amazon Echo Dot Smart Speaker

Smart speakers with voice search built in have so many uses in the classroom . The Amazon Echo Dot is one of our favorites, since it’s so easy to use and coordinates with other Amazon products.

Buy it: Amazon Echo Dot at Amazon

Photo Collage

Gather your favorite photos from the year (check social media or photos your child’s teacher shared in class emails or newsletters). Then, turn them into a keepsake collage. This one is extra adorable with the modern look and the LED light. Add your teacher’s favorite quote, a quote about teaching, or just their class and year.

Buy it: Custom Photo Collage Frame w/LED Light at Etsy

Kindle Paperwhite or Fire

If you’re up for a splurge or looking for a teacher gift from the whole class, Amazon’s e-readers and tablets offer great value for the money. If your teacher already has one, consider a Kindle Unlimited membership .

Buy it: Kindle Paperwhite and Fire HD 8 Tablet at Amazon

Personalized Photo Frame

Teachers and coaches love the gift of memories. Share your child’s favorite memory with their teacher in a personalized frame. This is a perfect gift to display in a teacher’s classroom for years to come. 

Buy it: Personalized Picture Frame at Personalization Mall

These cute coasters are the perfect teacher gifts for those teachers who always have a mug or bottle on their desk. Even without the mug, teachers can display this personalized desk tchotchke to add some flair to their space. 

Buy it: Personalized Coaster at Etsy

Audible Membership

Give a lit-loving teacher plenty of audiobooks to enjoy during their much-deserved downtime. Audible gift memberships are available from one month to a year, so there are teacher gift options for all price ranges.

Buy it: Audible Gift Membership at Amazon

Need more ideas? Check out all of our teacher gifts articles here!

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Teachers' Gifts Made Easy: The Truth About What They Want and What They Don't

Published by Julianna W. Miner on December 9, 2016

I’ve always struggled with what to get teachers for the holidays and at the end of the year. So I asked my readers, specifically those that are (or have been) teachers, for their thoughts and advice. I got hundreds of answers on Facebook , Twitter and in the comments section. I asked for the truth and I got it!

Here was my goal with this:

Figure out what teachers really want and need, so that we can all avoid dealing with stuff that is expensive, stupid and unnecessary.

Here's what I learned:

Teachers don’t expect to be given gifts, but appreciate very much them when they are given. Teachers are extremely grateful when families take the time to think of them and appreciate their hard work.

That being said, please consider the following:

• They have lots of students.

• They have lots of students every year.

• They have a limited capacity to store trinkets and knick knacks from their students.

Here’s an example: You see a mug with an apple and a pencil on it and think, this would be perfect! But I want you to imagine getting a mug describing your job (#1 Accountant!). Then imagine getting five or more of pretty much the same mug - every single year. While teachers genuinely appreciate the thought, they probably don’t want mugs, teacher-themed knick-knacks, or anything with apples on them.

Ditto with candles. Candles were mentioned over and over again. As were scented lotions, hand creams, and body washes. It's a really nice thought but most teachers get tons of them and many prefer to pick the scent they use themselves.

Also, while teachers appreciate the time invested in making something, they usually don't have room to keep all the craft projects and Pinterest-type presents they receive. And then they feel really bad when they can't keep them and the point is not to make them feel guilty for not keeping something they don't have room for. As I am personally craft-impaired - this made me irrationally happy.

Another no-no? Home-made treats. While some teachers like them, many more stated that they rarely ate the home-made treats because they were dieting or had food allergies or were just very careful about eating food prepared in kitchens they were unfamiliar with. Totally understandable.

So here's a list of things NOT to get for teachers:

• Anything teacher or apple-themed

• Craft projects (including Pinterest projects)

• Large framed photos or art (limited room)

• Home-made treats

Moving on to what teachers do want! The number one thing mentioned was not gift cards, or bottles of wine, or even cash... It was hand-written notes from kids or parents about what the teacher had meant to the student. Nearly every teacher mentioned that these notes and letters were the thing that they kept, treasured and reread again years later, the things that really meant the most to them.

Teachers also frequently mentioned that they didn't care how much you spend. This was a big relief to me because where we live, people can go crazy with the teacher gifts and frankly - we just can't compete. I can’t stress this enough, teachers get it. Most of them are parents, too.

Next to a handwritten note, a gift card to a favorite place, a coffee shop near the school or a store where the teacher may spend their own money on classroom stuff is always welcome. Some teachers warned us to be thoughtful where the gift cards were for, as they may not get used. For example, buying a gift card for a mani/pedi at a place that's inconvenient or for a store that the teacher maybe can't afford (like a $10 card for a high end department store where nothing costs $10).

Many people mentioned that their schools or PTA's collect a list of what teachers like (or need) so you can do a little intelligence gathering that way. If you want be certain that your gift is genuinely useful and benefits what’s happening in the classroom, this is the way to go. A mom I know just told me that such a list exists for our school and I never even knew about it!

So here's a very short list of things you SHOULD get teachers:

• A note or letter recalling what their time has meant with your child. (We can not stress enough that this was by far the most mentioned, appreciated and wanted item.)

• A gift card.

• Something they need or really like that has been identified on a teacher wish list.

My take-away from reading all the comments was this:

If you want to hit a home run with your teacher's end of the year gift, have your child write a letter and pair it up with a small gift card. The end.

Here's a few more things to keep in mind:

• High school and middle school teachers: The older your kid gets, the less likely their teacher is to receive a gift. If a middle or high school teacher has done a great job, a note and a small gift card will be a great surprise and very much appreciated.

• Day care teachers and child care workers: Day care providers are also teachers and they totally deserve some recognition, too. With daycare, sometimes "the end of the year" gets muddled - because there is no summer vacation.

• Assistant teachers: Apparently, they don't expect to get the exact same present as the teacher. They're happy to get something that acknowledges their contribution to the classroom, which we all know is very important.

• Special ed and resource teachers: These folks work really hard on behalf of our kids and are often over-looked. If your child is getting extra help, consider a little something for these hard-working teachers.

• Non-tenured teachers: Sometimes the best thing you can do for a new or non-tenured teacher is something that costs you nothing. This was mentioned several times and seems like such a great idea; write a letter to the Principal or Superintendent of Schools praising what a good job they did. Make sure the teacher is cc'ed on the letter. It goes into their personnel file and could really help them when hiring and tenure decisions are made.

• Support Staff: If your kid is always in the nurse's office or bugging the librarian - why not send them a nice note at the end of the year, too?

I hope this is helpful! Happy Holidays!

An earlier version of this post appeared on Rants from Mommyland .

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What Are The Best Gifts For English Teachers?

Mary Kay McBrayer

Mary Kay is a belly-dancer, horror enthusiast, sideshow lover, prose writer, Christian, and literature professor from south of Atlanta. Her true crime novel, America’s First Female Serial Killer: Jane Toppan and the Making of a Monster is available for pre-order, and you can hear her analysis (and jokes) about scary movies on the podcast she co-founded, Everything Trying to Kill You. She can be reached at [email protected] .

View All posts by Mary Kay McBrayer

The best gifts for English teachers? The answer is wine.

I am—unfortunately—just kidding: most schools have made it against the rules to give teachers any form of alcohol, which is a supreme bummer, since that’s what we really want.

You may know, also, that The Rules have prevented us from receiving other useful gifts, as well. Like money. Which is the thing we want the very, very most. I mean, aside from liberating the minds of youths and helping communication and understanding grow among Generation Z, who have to save us all. Besides that, money.

My students brought Halloween-themed gifts for English teachers… that’s how well they know me!

The trick to buying a gift for your English teacher is very similar to buying a gift for anyone else: pay attention to what they like and what they do. It doesn’t have to be anything super expensive or extravagant to be thoughtful. On Halloween, once, two of my college freshmen showed up with a sack full of candy corn for me and a skull figurine for my desk because they knew “Halloween is your favorite.” They are so right. They LISTENED. (And that gift is two-fold because NOT ONLY DID I LOVE IT AND I’M EATING IT RIGHT NOW, but ALSO, they listened during class!)

So with the two best gifts totally off limits, here’s a list of 25 of the best gifts for English teachers, straight from the source.

25.  Nolite te Bastardes Carborundurum Shirt

Don’t let the bastards grind you down

The end of the semester is hard for teachers, too. This is when students think they have it the worst because all of their work culminates, but IRL, it’s harder on the teachers. Not only do we have to grade all that work you did, but you likely did it last minute, which means it’s going to be hard to decipher, despite our best efforts. And then we have to double check our math before final grades are posted. And then we have to field emails from students who suddenly decide to care—you obviously don’t fall into this camp, not if you’re buying gifts in advance—and meet with supervisors about grade disputes. It’s all part of the job. This tee is a joke in Latin (from  The Handmaid’s Tale ). Loosely translated, it says, “Don’t let the bastards grind you down.” The tee shirt is good, but we can’t wear it to work. That’s why it’s number 25.

24. Write Like a Motherfucker Mug

23. Literary Tree Ornaments

If your teacher celebrates Christmas and dresses a tree, these ornaments are not only beautiful and elegant, but they’ll also go with any tree’s color scheme. Subtext: it’s not tacky. PLUS, this one has lines from  To Kill a Mockingbird  as its filling! Other books are also available. I recommend choosing either the book that affected you most as a student, or a book that you know your teacher loves. This one is high on the list of teacher Christmas gifts.

22. Movie Tickets

If you got Money Like That, and you know your teacher or professor doesn’t already have MoviePass or the hookup for movies, you can get them movie tickets. My best friend found this one of the best gifts for high school English teachers, and I know I’ll never forget it because the parents who gave them to her also composed The Thong Song. THAT’S RIGHT. The composer of The Thong Song sent my best friend to the movies.

21. Literary Rocks Glasses

20. Human Skull Pen Holder

19. Your Teacher’s Favorite Book

One cool thing that a class did for me was buy a copy of my favorite book (I think they all Venmo’d each other so it ended up being like 60 cents per person), and they signed it. Bonus: it was a book that I taught them, and they each underlined their favorite lines and wrote in the margin. This was a super dope awesome thoughtful gift because 1. they listened, 2. it took some planning, and 3. THEY PROVED THAT THEY KNEW HOW TO ANNOTATE. It was, as Michael Scott says, a Win Win Win in the gifts for English professors category.

18. Bath Tray with Book Holder

17. A Keurig

The next best thing to wine is coffee, and because we all know that the coffee in the teacher’s lounge sooo intended to be Fuel that it’s basically Unleaded, a Keurig machine for one’s office—if one has an office—is among the great gifts for English professors. They’re stupid-expensive, though, so this might be a gift better suited for the wallet of a parent of a high school student, too.

If you can’t take treat your teacher to the movies, and you don’t have Money Like That for a Keurig, treat him or her to a cup of coffee. Gift cards or certificates for local coffee places (or Starbucks, if that’s your teacher’s favorite) are great English teacher gifts. And if you want to jazz it up, stick it inside a mug and surround it by your teacher’s favorite candy.

15. Noise-Canceling Headphones

The reality of offices is that many teachers do not have their own. Usually, we have to share. That’s not always bad, but it does prevent concentration when we’re trying to grade or write or plan lessons…or just do any work at all. One of the best purchases I made was noise-canceling headphones. I wear them whenever I don’t want to be bothered. Sometimes I’m not even listening to them. Maybe it’s rude. Maybe we don’t care. The point is, you’ll get papers back faster if you get your teacher these headphones.

14. Book Cover Posters

13. Your Hogwarts Letter

12. Dead Poets’ Society Poster

BUT NOT JUST ANY PENS. Observe! What does your teacher write with? Which pens does he or she complain about? Don’t buy those! Don’t buy the pink ones just because they’re pink, either! This is a literal conversation I had with one of my English composition students:

Me: Borrowing someone’s pen is like borrowing someone’s toothbrush. Her: Really? So… what do you say when someone asks to borrow your pen? Me: “No.”

In conclusion, pens are a good gift. But bad pens are bad gifts for English teachers. (I recommend ultra fine G6 pens. .38mm, y’all.)

10. Stamps with the Teacher’s Catch Phrase on Them

Does your teacher say something funny on a regular basis? If so, maybe you should go ahead on and make him/her a stamp or a sticker that says it for them. Save them some time. Make them laugh. When I taught gifted high schoolers, I would always find a way to insert words of wisdom (or what I thought were wisdom in regards to existing in the world), and they thought that was hilarious. They were really practical things, like me insisting they use the buddy system over the weekend, or announcing to the empty house “Food’s here!” when a delivery arrives so no one knows you’re home alone. Again, they thought this very basic advice was hilarious, so one of them made me a pin that said, “#MaryKayfreakout.” That was years ago, and I still have it.

I also tend to say “Minus five” when my college students say something I hate, but no one has given me a stamp with that written on it.

So, this one might seem like a silly thing to get a teacher, but if you are reading this and you are a teacher, how delighted would you be if a parent gave you a gong? The thing about gongs is that they serve many purposes. Not only can you rally the attention of a misbehaving or overexcited classroom—which makes these great gifts for high school English teachers who don’t want to raise their voice or resort to whatever methods they have to use after lunch—but you can reward students for thoughtful input. Did you have an epiphany? Ring the gong. Did you get a 100 on your essay? Ring that gong! Think about how truly satisfying that would be! (Not to mention you could ring it if someone was talking too much. I would never do that, probably. Although, let’s be honest, we’ve all fantasized about having a game show buzzer on call when those special wormhole tangents open up and the whole class piles inside.)

8. Cookbook Holders

Yes, most people use cookbook holders for holding cookbooks, but they are SO helpful when we’re making lesson plans! They hold the book open to the page that you need it while you type from it, so your hands can be free for other things. These are useful for students, too, and I wish that I had known they existed when I was a student. It would have saved me a lot of frustration!

7. Your Teacher’s Favorite Novel…Written with Her as the Protagonist

6. Hollowed Out Book with Flask and Shot Glasses

There’s not a single book or author more fitting to hollow out and fill with a flask and shot glass than Ernest Hemingway . Don’t worry about whether your teacher will bring this to class. S/he won’t. It’ll be the secret stash in the den, for when we’re trapped at a holiday gathering and we don’t want Aunt Clara to know that yes, I am having another drink because it is the holidays and you are stressing me out. What do you mean, Why am I still not married? IT’LL HAPPEN WHEN IT HAPPENS, CLARA. And while we’re pouring one out, we will think about how well you know us, and how grateful we are for your foresight.

5. Middle Earth Throw Blanket

4. Game of Thrones Monopoly

I heard a horrible story this week: because of the rain, my friend who teaches fifth grade had to cancel recess for four straight days. FOUR DAYS. She had to instead entertain her students in the classroom. With board games. What board game is both educational and lasts forever? Monopoly, of course. And what’s better than learning? Game of Thrones . Time to put a hotel in Westeros, am I right?

3. Hodor Doorstopper

Yeah, yeah. It’s “against the rules,” but you know what? Most of the best books were banned for a while, too. Like,  To Kill a Mockingbird.  Like,  Persepolis.  Like,  The Bluest Eye.  And now they’ve won a ton of awards, and so shall you, if you can figure out a way to palm me that twenty.

Look, man. The whole thing of English is to draw attention to the flaws in any culture, and not being able to give wine to teachers is one of them. Fight the good fight, friendos.

What do you think? What are the best presents you gave your English teachers? And fellow teachers, what were some of the best that you received? Let us know in the comments! (Because remember, you don’t get what you don’t ask for!)

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Teacher Gift Ideas: What a Teacher REALLY Wants

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy here.

This time of year it’s easy to get caught up in the Pinterest wonderland of pretty pictures, holiday decor, and gift ideas.  I’ve seen the most amazing DIY teacher gifts flooding my Pinterest stream, and trust me, they are incredible.  But I taught for eleven years in mostly low income areas and there were a few gifts that truly stood out as being my favorites– and you might be surprised with which ones I treasure most.  Recently, something arrived in my mailbox that brought me to tears and I wanted to share it with other busy, harried parents searching for the ‘perfect’ gift for your child’s teacher or caregiver.

Before I became a mother, or a even a teacher, I babysat for a family whose children were the same ages as my little minions are now.  Of course, time passes and that 3-year-old is now a Harvard educated lawyer and the then 5-year-old is off saving the world. 😉  While cleaning out, they found an essay written by their daughter in sixth grade (6 years after I’d been their babysitter!) and sent it to me in the mail.  It was a typical rushed, stressful day when I opened up the card and found this:

An entire essay written by a 6th grader about who influenced her the most– and that person was, incredibly, ME.

My favorite line?

“When I was young I used to think she was a very young grandmother.”

{my friends are *so* laughing at me right now, because that describes me to a ‘t’!}

At the bottom, the red ink made me smile:

The teacher grading the essay had also been MY teacher twelve years prior– in fact, I remember writing my own 6th grade essay on the same topic.  The joys of living in a small town!

Perhaps the most amazing thing, the thing I never told this young author, is that she influenced me quite a bit too.  When I met her, I started thinking of the day I’d eventually have my own children– and I wanted them to be just like her and her brother.  I really was like a young grandmother, right?

Back to what a teacher really wants for Christmas.  Imagine a classroom filled with individuals each stuffed to the brim with unique needs and personalities.  Coordinating meeting their questions and needs without blinking an eye would impress the most storied football coach.  Little shoes that need tying, noses wiping, hands holding– and oh, also teaching.  Creating lessons to inspire, reading books to capture the imagination, helping each child succeed and learn and grow.  Shaping interpersonal skills and soothing hurt feelings.  Communicating with parents while keeping the administration happy, all the while knowing in this day and age a teacher would lay down their lives to protect these precious treasures gifted to their care.

How on earth do you say thanks?

With words.

It didn’t happen all the time, but when I was teaching once in awhile I’d receive a note of gratitude from parents and students.  I’ve saved each and every one.  In this interconnected social media age, I’ve even heard from former students on Facebook.  Last year, one mom private messaged me to say thank you– 16 years after I’d taught her daughter!  There’s no better gift in the world.

During my last year as a classroom teacher, I unwrapped a gift from a student who’s entire face was glowing with excitement to find a pair of used plastic earrings.  He’d wanted to give me a gift and his mother allowed him to choose an item from her own jewelry box since they couldn’t afford to buy anything for the teachers that year.  Those earrings remind me that the smallest, most sincere gestures are often the best.

Who would have thought a pair of previously owned plastic earrings would fill me with such joy?

So if you’re wondering what a teacher REALLY wants this year, consider taking the time you would have used to bake bread or cookies or giftwrap a mug and write a sincere note of thanks or have your child write all the reasons they love their teacher in a card.

If you still want to give more, go for a gift card.

Or hand sanitizer.

Both are always appreciated.

But mostly a sincere note of thanks.

Maybe attached to a Lenox ornament.  But only because this is the last year with my son’s teachers and I wanted to give them an extra special high-5.

Please know that whatever you do, it will be appreciated because it came from the heart.  I only wanted to assure you that it doesn’t have to be pinworthy to be perfect.

Wishing you all a happy holiday, and thanking you for being so wonderful & supportive– sharing ideas, pinning, commenting and generally being the most amazing Lemonade Loves a person could ask for.  I’m truly grateful for YOU!

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20 Great Useful Gifts for Teachers

Updated: December 20, 2022

Published: May 9, 2020

Whether it’s holiday season, the end of the year, or just time to express your appreciation, there are certain gifts for teachers that are sure to satisfy!

While keeping to a budget or getting creative with DIY ideas, there are so many teacher gift ideas to choose from. Here’s a list of some crowd favorites.

Photo by  Element5 Digital  on  Unsplash

20 gift ideas for teachers, 1. mason jar with goodies.

Fill a mason jar with goodies . This can include gourmet chocolate or even freshly baked cookies. The good thing about providing your gift in a mason jar is that it can be reused and savored forever, even when the sweets run out!

2. Personalized Pencils/Notecards

All teachers write notes and use pens and pencils. Why not get some personalized stationary or writing utensils made for your favorite teacher?

3. Good Wine

One way to unwind is with a glass of wine. If you know your teacher’s preference, choose a good bottle of white or red wine, and they are sure to appreciate it.

4. Bag For School

Another useful gift idea is a bag for school. Teachers tend to carry a lot of paperwork and books to and from school. You can help them on their commute by choosing a comfortable and spacious bag for them to use. You can even customize it with their initials.

5. Personalized Laminator

The chances are high that your teacher has used a laminating machine before. More often than not, it’s a hassle for teachers to find the time to get their printing done, and it can even cost them money out of pocket. If you buy a personalized laminator, they can get this done in the comfort of their own classroom or home.

6. Something Meaningful/Personalized

It’s the thought that counts behind gifts. The more personalized and meaningful a gift is, the more the thought can be felt.

7. Recipe Box/Book

Perhaps your teacher has expressed his or her love for cooking or baking. You can compile a recipe book or box with notecards from students in the class to create a compilation of everyone’s favorite recipes!

8. Travel Tumbler

Take the overdone mug gift to the next level by buying a reusable coffee/tea tumbler. This way, your teacher can take their drink on the go.

From classroom keys, to home keys and car keys, teachers tend to have too many sets of keys to keep track of. To make it easier for them to open their classroom, buy them a customized lanyard.

10. Gift Card

If you feel really stuck on what to buy because you’re unsure of what your teacher will like, consider a gift card. You can buy a generic Visa gift card , for example. Those are accepted almost everywhere!

11. Massage

Teachers deal with a lot of stress. Consider buying a massage treatment for your teacher to indulge in.

12. A Movie Night

Similar to a massage, a movie night is a way for teachers to unwind and relax. You can purchase movie tickets and even gift certificates for popcorn so that your teacher can go catch their favorite new release in the theatres.

13. Notes And Letters

More often than not, teachers appreciate gifts from the heart the most. Without spending anything, you can write your teacher a heart-felt letter of gratitude for all they’ve done for you and taught you. Many teachers save these letters.

14. Gift Basket

Create or buy a gift basket filled with goodies. Some items to include can be: tea, coffee, cookies, gift cards, stationary, edible arrangements of fruit, gourmet trail mix, etc. Or, you can go the practical route and include hand sanitizer, white board markers, and other items that teachers need in their classroom.

15. Handmade Decoration

Ever thought about sprucing up the classroom? If you like arts and crafts, you can make a decoration like a name tag for your teacher to put on his or her desk. Another idea would be to create a ceramic pot and paint it. You can put a plant inside or let your teacher choose their own.

16. Memory Book

You and your classmates can come together and make a memory book with photos, quotes, lessons learned, and inside jokes from the year together.

17. Holiday Dish Towels

People tend to really appreciate the items they wouldn’t buy for themselves. This could be a holiday dish towel or special edition dish soap.

18. Teacher Stamp

If you have seen your teacher grade with stamps or put their initials on paperwork frequently, a teacher stamp could be of use. This way, when they are completing paperwork, they can expedite the process with a stamp rather than by writing the same thing over and over.

19. Sticky Notes Set

A customized or unique sticky note set is a useful gift for teachers. Not only can they use it for reminders, but it will remain on their desk for quite some time. That way, they will think of you every time they use it.

20. A Coffee Subscription

Does your teacher drink coffee every morning? Coffee subscriptions are a great gift that keeps on giving.

Some Gifts To Avoid

There’s no person, including teachers, who would say no to a gift because that’s just rude. However, there are some gifts that you should reconsider before giving.

The chances are high that your teacher already has the “Best Teacher” mug from a student who came before you. As mentioned above, consider buying a coffee travel tumbler over a mug.

2. Lotions And Candles

Scents are super subjective. There are some scents that people cannot stand, or could even be allergic to. So, it’s best to avoid giving candles and lotions.

3. Really Expensive Gifts

Like we said, it’s the thought that counts (more than the amount). Some schools may even have limits on what a teacher can accept as a gift. It’s a better idea to bring students together to contribute to a gift of large value rather than overextend what you can afford on your own.

Photo by Nynne Schrøder on  Unsplash

The gift of giving.

Whether you attend an online school or see a teacher every day in person, they deserve your appreciation. Teachers give a lot of themselves and spend time making a positive difference in the world. By expressing your gratitude with one of these teacher gifts, your teacher will be able to know that they have made an impact on your life.

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Teachers deserve a lot of appreciation these days and a great way to show them that all of their hard work has made an impact is with a simple but effective gift — particularly one that could help make their lives that much easier. 

Whether it's Teacher Appreciation Week or the last day of your favorite class, we outlined some practical gifts for your favorite teacher, from a portable coffee maker to an under-desk foot hammock.

A set of teacher affirmation cards

Teacher Affirmation Cards

Teaching can be overwhelming but these affirmation cards are sweet and grounding reminders that their work is meaningful. With mantras like "What other teachers swear by may not work for me and that's okay" and "My students feel safe in my classroom," these cards are a small but sweet token of appreciation for any teacher. 

A mini Crock-Pot to warm their lunch

Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer

Bringing a cold lunch every day to quickly eat at their desk can be boring. This mini Crock-Pot can be plugged in their classroom to warm up soups, oatmeal, dips, or anything else they want for a warm and relaxing lunch period. 

Adorable apple earrings for everyday wear

Fruit Drop Earrings

An apple is an old-school teacher gift but this one will last far longer than the first day of class. These bright, hand-cut fruit drop earrings come in strawberry, pink grapefruit, and green apple for a cute accessory they'll want to wear every day. 

A custom box of self-care goodies

Happy Boxes Build a Care Package

If you want to give the teacher in your life a custom care package, Happy Box has tons of unique gifts to choose from, including custom mugs, snacks, candles, coffee, and more. If you aren't sure what to include, you can start with a curated box and make it their own with a sweet card. 

A meaningful memory book

Teacher Memory Book

It can be easy to focus on the hard and stressful days of teaching but this thoughtful memory book will help them capture the best moments. With space for photos, student quotes, and question prompts, this gift is one they'll cherish throughout the years. 

A cute K-Mini Single-Serve coffee maker

K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker

If your teacher is a big fan of coffee, why not bring that luxury straight to their classroom? This miniature coffee maker is just small enough to fit on a desk or end-table and comes in six different colors for optimal color coordination. Plus, it'll be nice to have on-demand caffeine for those late-night grading sessions.

An adjustable under-desk foot hammock

Under Desk Foot Hammock

Add a little bit of fun to sitting behind a desk with this under-rest foot hammock. As comfortable as it is discreet, this quirky rest helps remove deep aches and pains from the lower back and feet by reducing swelling and fatigue. Plus, it's suitable for most desks, made of 100% premium quality cotton fabric, and even has a headphone holder.

A chic school supply organizer

Marbrasse Bamboo Art Supply Organizer

This school supply organizer is an elevated take on the typical plastic container. It rotates for convenient access, but it can blend seamlessly in their classroom or home.

Treats to add to their snack stash

Snack Magic Stash

Almost every teacher keeps a stash of snacks and treats for those days when they really need a pick-me-up. With a snack magic box, you can create a custom snack box full of treats the teacher will love.

A comfortable space to work

Lapgear Lap Desk

Teachers inevitably have to bring their work home. With this lap desk, at least they can work comfortably from their bed or the couch as they lesson plan or grade on weekends. The desk comes in seven unique patterns.

A personalized message from their favorite celebrity

Cameo Video

Take the gold standard of teacher gifts — a personal and thoughtful letter — up a notch and have their favorite celebrity deliver the message. You can choose from thousands of celebrities to record a personalized video message to send to the teacher. (Since the more famous celebrities can be pricier, this can be a great gift to split with other classmates).

A heater to make their classroom more comfortable

Honeywell VersaHeat Digital Two Position Ceramic Personal Heater

Most teachers don't get to choose the temperature of their classroom, and shivering or sweating uncontrollably doesn't make for an ideal workday. With this space heater that also functions as a fan, they can make their classroom comfortable all year long. Just be sure to check that space heaters are allowed in classrooms before purchasing.

Hand cream to combat dryness

Tonymoly Hand Cream

After washing and sanitizing their hands all day long, teachers' skin easily becomes dry and cracked. This premium peach hand cream will keep their hands soft and smelling nice.

A warming plate for their coffee

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

It's a rare day that a teacher gets to finish their coffee before it gets cold. Give them the gift of perpetually warm coffee with this mug warmer they can plug in right at their desk.

Bookends for their home or classroom

Agate Bookends

These beautiful bookends are made of solid agate. They can decide to use it in their home library or as a homey accent in their classroom. 

Rainbow cookies for their sweet tooth

Rainbow Chocolate Chip Cookie Tins

Many teachers keep a secret stash of their favorite treats hidden somewhere in their desks. Satisfy their sweet tooth with a tin of beautiful rainbow chocolate chip cookies.

A story from the students' perspective

"Dear Teacher" by Paris Rosenthal

Perfect for preschool or kindergarten teachers, "Dear Teacher" is a love letter to all kinds of educators, written from the perspective of the kids who learn from them. It's an adorable message that teachers can share and appreciate with their students.

A scented candle that reminds them of a happy place

Homesick Scented Candle

This is a great gift that's sure to make them feel sentimental. Whether it's their hometown, college town, or favorite spot to vacation, a Homesick candle — with scents inspired by all sorts of locations — will bring them back to that favorite place.

A tablet that lets them convey handwritten material remotely

XP-Pen Graphic Tablet

One of the difficult aspects of remote learning is finding resourceful and convenient ways to mirror in-person tactics teachers use. This Graphic Tablet lets teachers draw using the stylus to convey information they may have handwritten before, such as math formulas or diagrams.

A funny book of the best wrong test answers

"F in Exams" by Richard Benson

After a stressful year for teachers, you may want to celebrate the funny and lighthearted side of the job. This book compiles some of the most amusing and inventive real-life wrong answers to grade school and high school tests.

A personalized embosser for their library

StampiShop Custom Stamp

This unique, thoughtful gift embosses books with "from the library of [their name]" by pressing down like a hole-puncher. It's the kind of thing most people would never buy themselves but would genuinely cherish and get a kick out of if they received it as a present.

The best water bottle they'll ever use

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

A stellar water bottle is a timeless life upgrade, but it'll be especially useful this summer. This stainless steel version from HydroFlask is the best water bottle you can buy, thanks to insulated stainless steel that keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for up to six. 

Delicious food from some of the best restaurants in the US

Restaurant Meal Kits

Bring a bit of their favorite restaurant right to their door. From bagels to barbeque, Goldbelly ships food gifts nationwide from iconic eateries in major cities.

A water-resistant speaker to enjoy outside this summer

Soundcore Flare Mini Bluetooth Speaker

Ensure they enjoy the summer with a portable, water-resistant speaker like this version from Anker. It's got a 12-hour battery life as well as LED lights on the bottom that they can adjust for five different lighting moods. We think it's the best relatively cheap Bluetooth speaker you can buy.

A comfy sleep mask

Luxury Sleep Mask

Gift a comfortable sleep mask and help them get the kind of restorative, deep sleep they must need this year.

A coloring book full of relatable phrases

"Teacher Life: A Snarky Chalkboard Coloring Book"

There are some situations that only teachers can understand, and this adult coloring book perfectly captures them with humor and cheekiness. The illustrations are single-sided, so they can take the page out and frame it if they so wish. 

Substantial, comfortable socks

Bombas Socks All-Purpose Performance Ankle Socks

Adulthood transforms socks from a banal, unexciting gift to a precious life upgrade. Bombas makes some of our favorite and most comfortable pairs , and we love to gift them to friends and family.

A convenient wireless phone charger

Moshi Otto Q Wireless Charger

Make their life that much easier with a wireless fast-charging pad that they can simply set their phone on top of in order to charge. After years of using the Moshi Otto Q, we ranked this version the best wireless charger you can buy. It's compatible with iPhones, AirPods, Samsung Galaxy/Note, Google Pixel, and other Qi-enabled devices.

A gift card for travel experiences

Airbnb Gift Card

Summer vacation is almost here, and you can help your teacher plan some much-needed time off with an Airbnb gift card that never expires (and can be used for online experiences if they're not comfortable traveling right now).

A small potted plant for their desk

Snake Plant Laurentii

Instead of gifting a flower bouquet, try an indoor plant. It lasts longer and requires less maintenance, but livens up their desk just as well. 

A colorful tote bag

BAGGU Giant Pocket Tote

BAGGU makes great bags and its machine-washable cotton totes are no exception. Help your teacher carry all those lesson plans, tests, and homework papers with this cute yet sturdy tote. 

An insulated mug

Hydro Flask 12 oz Coffee Mug

Whatever it is they drink in the morning to prepare them for the school day ahead, this insulated mug keeps the beverage at the appropriate temperature for an astonishingly long amount of time. It has a comfortable handle and comes in many bright colors. 

Takeout any time they want it

Door Dash Gift Card

Teachers log long days to support and enrich the lives of their students. Make sure their next easy, delicious dinner and relaxing night in is comped with a Doordash gift card.

A comfortable seat cushion

Purple Portable Seat Cushion

These cushions can help soothe sore muscles and alleviate back strain. They're available in a variety of designs and thicknesses. Read our full review here . 

A way to squeeze in leisure reading

Audible 3-Month Membership

In between grading papers and designing lesson plans, it might be hard for your teacher to carve out time to read a book (for fun). Audible is a great way to catch up on the bestsellers everyone's reading , appreciate the classics from a new angle, or finally dive into that book they keep falling asleep to in bed. 

Decadent cupcakes they can enjoy

Cupcake Gift Boxes

Who doesn't love getting a sweet surprise? With delicious flavors ranging from Cookie Dough to Pink Frosted Donut, these bite-size treats are sure to please. You can also add a special gift box to complete the gift.

Practical, reusable silicone straws

Five Two Silicone Straws Single Pack

Bendable, sustainable, and portable (thanks to the set of carrying cases), these fun straws are the accessory they can use in their classroom, at home, and on the go.

A coffee subscription

Driftaway Coffee Subscription

Chances are the coffee in the teacher's lounge isn't exactly top-notch. Thankfully, Driftaway Coffee's is, and keeps things interesting by sending new whole bean varieties every month (and improving upon the next selection based on their feedback). By the end of the school year, your teacher will have a good idea of the type of coffee they really like. 

A detailed poster of opening lines from famous novels

Lab 'Diagrammatical Dissertation on Opening Lines of Notable Novels'

English and grammar teachers will appreciate this chart diagramming the opening lines from 25 famous works of fiction. After admiring the partitioned, color-coded picto-grammatical representations, they'll want to read the books all over again. 

A fragrant candle

Otherland Candle

These sophisticated coconut and soy wax candles come in scents ranging from refreshing  Canopy (fig, ivy greens, mint) to rich Chandelier (champagne, saffron, leather). The beautiful look, delightful scents, and personalized matchbox make this candle gifting experience special . 

A personalized notebook, planner, or address book

Teach From The Heart Notebook

Give this one to the best teacher you know. You'll be able to customize the cover design, interior cover, and interior format of the notebook. 

A pillow massager for their neck and back

Zyllion Shiatsu Pillow Massager

If you've ever caught your child's teacher looking stressed or tense, you can fix that with this heated at-home massager that feels almost like a professional massage . It has four deep-kneading rotating nodes to relieve aches, knots, and muscle tension. 

A fun tape dispenser

Otto the Otter Tape Dispenser

An adorable twist to the traditional, ugly tape dispenser will instantly liven up their desk. 

A cute, funny coffee mug

StitchandprintStudio Watch Me Click Now Watch Me Grade Grade mug

A cute mug that reminds them of their grateful students can be a fun, routine moment of motivation in a busy day.

A handy phone stand

Lamicall Cellphone Stand

The simple, sleek, and durable stand is the perfect way to keep their device upright at just the right angle as they work. While it's a no-frills gift, it's undoubtedly practical and useful. 

A personalized desk sign

GaroSigns Personalized Desk Wedge Sign

The wedge is a solid natural hardwood while the sign is shatter-resistant fogged acrylic glass, allowing it to last through any teacher's illustrious career. 

A gift card to stock up on work shirts

Public Rec Gift Card

Public Rec makes the most versatile polo shirt we've found, and many of the offerings from this athleisure brand are suitable for the classroom and beyond.

A custom rubber stamp

SayaBellStamps Custom Stamp

Gift the stamp they'll always reach for first as they check and grade homework. You can get creative by submitting a picture of your teacher's face or their favorite catchphrase. There are three different mount choices and many more size options. 

A book-of-the-month subscription

Book of the Month 3-Month Membership

A hardcover book delivered monthly is a great way for a teacher to unplug and kick their feet up over summer break. Every month, they can choose from acclaimed fiction and nonfiction titles.

A cozy plush blanket

Bliss Plush Throw

Add to their home setup with a plush throw to wrap themselves in luxury . Available in a wide array of colors, this blanket adds coziness to any room.

A novelty USB flash drive

Pink Pig USB 2.0 Flash Drive

A cute and funny flash drive can instantly make work more fun. Sometimes, it's the little things. 

A smart home device

Amazon Echo Dot (4th Generation)

For work or leisure, the small smart home device is endlessly useful. They can play Jeopardy, ask for recipes, listen to the news, turn lights on, play music, reorder products, and more. 

A personalized key ring

Leatherology Hotel Keychain

The full-grain leather keychain is a perfectly composed accessory that they'll love to carry, especially if you personalize it (for only $5) with a monogram. 

A beautiful note cube

Louis C. Tiffany Favrile Note Cube

Known for his stained glass work, Louis C. Tiffany lends his colorful and delicate designs to this tray, which holds 500 loose paper sheets and 50 color paper clips. 

Amazon Gift Card

At the end of the day, teachers will always appreciate a gift card from a place like Amazon where they can buy whatever they need for themselves or their classroom. Retailers like Target , Staples , or Walmart are also great options. 

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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51 Gifts for Teachers & Professors to Show Your Appreciation

• May 15, 2022
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Finding the perfect gift for your teacher or professor can be a challenge – even if you have an idea of what they’d like the act of finding and wrapping it takes time.  This list was designed to save you time while also increasing the chances you’ll pick a teacher appreciation gift that they will love.

Related : Awesome Gift Cards for Teachers

We talked to multiple teachers about some of the best and worst gives they’d received and this was the result – 51 gifts for teachers that are sure to help you convey how much you appreciate their time and effort.

Gifts for Teachers

Fit & fresh women’s venice insulated lunch bag.

Move away from the disposable paper bags to this elegant and colorful lunch bag. This is a nice gift for female teachers that they can use to pack their lunch like a comfortable tote bag. The Venice has plenty of space for meal containers and awesome insulation to keep food warm for most of the day. It is also available in many unique colors and designs.

Fit & Fresh Margene Messenger Style Lunch Bag for Women

This insulated lunch bag is a great teacher appreciation gift. It’s beautiful, functional and has a nice cross-body strap for easy carrying. More than just a cute tote bag, it has enough room for many items, thick inner linings for keeping food fresh as well. This bag also fits in nicely for road trips and picnics with its durable exterior.

Mud Pie Initial Canvas Tote

Pursetti Zip-Top Organizing Utility Tote Bag

Want more totes?  Check out our list of best bags for teachers !

Vanilla Milk Bath Gift Set

The Pure Pleasures box set is the perfect teacher appreciation gift. When you’re not sure about what to buy for that hardworking teacher, this gift set is a great choice to help your professor relax after a long week.

Emoji Magnets

These fun emoji magnets are guaranteed to put a smile on your favorite teacher’s face whenever they go to their desk or fridge. The strong magnet on these smileys can stick to most surfaces and are helpful in keeping stacks of report cards and assignment sheets organized.  

PS – we’ve got more classroom supplies here !

Gallery Wood Photo Frame Set

These frames are adaptable to any setting and allow the recipient to preserve memories that will offer encouragement on really long days. Perfect gift for your favorite teacher’s home or office!

Circleware Chalkboard Preserving Glass Canister Jar

This cute glass jar has more than a 2-liter volume for anything you’d like to store in it. The cool part is that it’s transparent and free of chemicals. This is a nice Christmas gift for teachers and could earn the entire class a glass full of sweets or cookies.

French Press – 8 Cup Coffee Maker

Coffee is a teacher’s lifesaver and this delectable French press is capable of churning out eight life-saving cups of tea or coffee. It’s made of incredibly sturdy glass, easy to use and a beautiful addition to any teacher’s table or desk (and goes great with the Starbucks gift card we listed here )!

Simple Modern Pint 16oz Tumbler

Keeping drinks warm or cold should be a breeze with this functional gift. Plenty of space for drinks, well insulated and easily stackable. Well-suited for all kinds of beverages whether seated or on the go.

White Tea & Citrus Satin Hands Pampering Set

What better way to say you appreciate a teacher than beauty products? This product pack helps to refresh the hands and face, letting you feel more beautiful and relaxed. Definitely one to put in the shopping cart especially on birthdays and end of school session.

Lava Foot Pumice Stone Pedicure Tools

Here’s an easy way to get your feet back feeling soft and gentle after a long day at work. Any teacher would be grateful for this set of volcanic rocks that help treat the feet for a nice long foot massage. Add this to an end of session gift pack or birthday gift to your friend or colleague for a nice pampering session at the pedicure shop.

Sweet Relief 100% Pure Memory Foam Back Cushion

After spending so much time standing up , any teacher would be happy to have a nice memory foam cushion to relax their neck and lumber. That is what makes this a popular teacher’s appreciation gift. It goes to show that you care and want them to feel better.

Modern Simple Geometric Throw Pillow Covers

Help your teacher add value and color to their home or classroom with this pack of patterned throw pillow covers. They comes in many beautiful colors that can match home decors and your loved one’s favorite color. The pack of 4 distinctive designs is also easy to wash and dry without worrying about the colors running or the fabric shrinking.

Coffee Mug Set of 6

Thinking of what to give a team of teachers at your kid’s school? This pack of coffee mugs are a perfect one-for-all gift set. The strong ceramic ensures microwave and dishwasher safety as well as good temperature retention. They’re also large enough for a quick meal of cereal.

Body Back Company’s Self Massage Tool

This stress relieving gizmo may be the difference between a comfortable nights rest and waking up on the wrong side of the bed. The self-massaging tool is what every teacher needs at the end of a long day on their feet.

Bar Amigos Wine Aerator

This aerator pack is especially suited to the wine aficionado teacher. Not only is it able to improve the taste of wine through proper aeration, chances are guests won’t have seen one before so there’s also the cool factor. A convenient gift box is included to make it a classy gift.

Best Wine Bottle Opener Corkscrew Set

Teachers that love wine shouldn’t have to go through the trouble of opening their bottles when you can buy them this multi-functional corkscrew. Not only does it uncork bottles, it also helps to remove the foil. It’s nicely packed and only needs wrapping paper to be the special teacher’s gift.

Luxury Cotton “Bring Me Coffee” Funny Socks

These funny and all-cotton socks have a cute message on the soles will go a long way in helping you show your affection. If you’re buying them for Valentine’s, go with the red color printed ones.

SimpleHouseware Mesh Desk Organizer

You can give the gift of improved organization with this desk organizer. Solid and impressive build, lots of racks and trays to fill up with important documents. This gift fits right on the work desk either at home or at work. The dividers can hold several books and there’s still space for documents and notes.

Teavana Perfectea Maker

The Perfectea maker is an easy method of steeping tea without any fuss. Made with convenience in mind, it contains just four moving parts and is constructed in a way that allows for easy washing and maintenance. To go the extra mile, you can include a pack of specialty tea leaves for that perfect brew your favorite teacher loves.

Kombucha Brewing Kit with Organic Kombucha Scoby

This kit has everything you’d need to make your own kombucha. The gift set has the organic leaf tea, temperature meter and even the sugar for the brew. There’s also a detailed instruction manual included to ensure that everything goes to plan. It’s a perfect gift for a teacher’s work anniversary. Gift now, drink up later.

Grady’s New Orleans Style Cold Brew Coffee Kit

It’s a teacher’s dream to have instant cold coffee on demand and this cold brew kit is the answer to that prayer. All you need do is to add water and soak away. It’s convenient, saves time and tastes amazing, awesome for a teachers’ appreciation gift any time of the year.

Sephra Premium Milk Chocolate

Chocolates are a girl’s best friend and teachers are no different. Enjoy a compelling milk chocolate taste suitable for use in baking, chocolate fountain and any other purpose you see fit. It’s also kosher dairy so you don’t have to worry about religious preferences.

Chesapeake Bay Candle

Scented candles are a pleasure to the senses and this blend of scents concocted for a burn time of over 50 hours will always be appreciated by the receiver. The scented candle contains hints of sea salt, clary sage and other exotic and calming scents like chamomile and lavender.

Yoga Exercise Mat

Given the amount of stress that teachers face every day, it’s no wonder that many take up Yoga as a way to calm the spirit and re-center their inner peace. Available in all the colors of the rainbow, a yoga mat is always a thoughtful gift to give a teacher or professor.

3D Sleep Mask

The gift of sleep is another thoughtful teacher gift that’s a winner every time. The Sleep Mask is designed to hug your facial contours snugly and help you sleep well during a long bus ride or flight. The comfortable material also shields the eyes from all rays and help prevent eye bags or dark circles.

Mandala Floor Pillow Cover

Add style and class to your teacher’s interior with the ornately designed pillow cover. It’s made of 100% cotton and is compatible with most round cushion pillows. It would add a touch of elegance to any seating ottoman while being easy to maintain.

Spenco Rx Orthotic Arch Support Insoles

Shoes are made for walking but when you’re on your feet for as many hours as teachers are , the discomfort can be excruciating. The gift of comfortable working can be shared via these nylon cushioning layer insoles. Suited to all shoe and foot types, this gift will make a teacher’s day more bearable.

Looking for shoes?  Check out our guide to the best shoes for teachers !

Creative Teaching Press Upcycle Style Calendar Set Bulletin Board

Here’s a fresh take on the bulletin board and a cool gift to help a teacher to keep better track of their day. The wooden calendar is easily customizable to match any personality. The months can be arranged in different colors or seasons to reflect schedules and labels.

25pc Teacher Stamp Set

There’s a fun way for teachers to put emoji on paper. The teacher’s set contains handwriting-sized emoji prints that can be used to make marks on paper to convey a fun emotion. These are made out of wood, so they are guaranteed to last for a long time.

“Teachers Can’t Live On Apples Alone” Wine Glass

This cute wine glass is made for teachers. The inscription is quirky, the Tritan plastic body is resistant to drops and totally shatter proof and holds nearly half a regular-sized bottle. You don’t have to do much as this comes in a gift box, ready for handing off to your favorite teacher on the first day of school.

“I’m a Teacher What’s Your Superpower” 22oz Tumbler

Teachers are superheroes, but few people remember that. Here’s the perfect way to remind your teacher that they possess something no one else does. The cup has a tight lid to prevent spillage and a straw inlet. It’s a nice gift for teacher appreciation or as a welcome back to school teachers’ gift.

How Teachers Swear! An Adult Coloring Book

Coloring isn’t only fun for kids. Teachers love coloring books too. This book is fun for teachers to relax after a long day at work or occupy some time between classes. Add this as a teacher’s Christmas gift and include it in the stockings under the chimney.

Nutritional Facts Mug

There are many things that make up an amazing teacher. This is one of the best shows of appreciation you can give to your teacher as a gift. The cup is strong, made from durable ceramic but also contains all the nice qualities that will encourage any teacher during a rough day.

Teacher Notebook: An Awesome Teacher

Reward your best teacher with a notebook to show how much you care. The notebook has more than 100 pages to fill with thoughts and plans. The best quality of the book is its motivational color-rich cover that proclaims the awesomeness of teachers for everyone to see. This notebook is a perfect end of year teacher gift.

We Need S’MORE Teachers Like You 5 Piece Gift Set

No gift set says thank you to your teacher like this teacher appreciation set. It contains a pen, branded earphones, a notebook, sticky notes and a mug. This gives great value as you save money on a complete set rather than individual unbranded items. It’s a great gift for teacher celebration events and other occasions.

Lovely Custom Personalized Self Inking Return Address Stamp

This wonderful ink pad is perfect for imprinting a customized stamp on stationery, invites and other paperwork. The stamp pad never runs out of ink as it can be refilled very easily and is perfect for teachers who also spend a lot of time organizing events.

Teacher Peach “Remember” Sticky Note and Page Marker Box Set

16 x 12 Premium Letter Board

Thank You Gift 5-Pack Kit – “Appreciation in a Box: Rock Star Kit”

Teacher Name Plate or Door Sign

Pet TickleMe Plant

Teacher Appreciation Gift Sign with Inspirational Journal and Glitter Rose Pen

Keep Calm and Teach On 5 Piece Gift Set

EXPO Low-Odor Dry-Erase Set

Sticker Set for Adults

Blue Sky Academic Year Teachers Plan Book

For the more tech savvy, consider gifting among these 5 Best Digital Teacher Planners for 2024.

Rolodex 3-Tier Swivel Tower Sorter

Umbra Trigg Desktop Planter Vase & Geometric Container

Artificial Faux Potted Home Desk

Did we miss any teacher gifts?

Whew – that was a long list!  Hopefully, you found something in there that you (and your teacher) will like.  If not, just let us know and we’ll send over some more ideas!

Quincy Smith

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Giving Teachers Gifts

Author biography.

John Dabell

Should teachers accept ‘end of term’ gifts?

The answer to that question is obviously ‘Yes’ – teachers deserve it, but if only it were that simple. Other professions have strict advice and guidance about gift giving with transparency given pride of place. It is the norm for many companies and organisations that staff aren’t permitted to accept personal gifts from clients and customers. So, should teaching be any different?

Across the board, consistency is what the NHS are aiming to achieve by having a national code on conflicts of interests and NHS England’s new guidance provides sensible advice in relation to accepting gifts. It is well worth looking at and can help support a good judgement in education circles too.

Do teachers have a similar code of conduct? Unfortunately, we don’t and it is a matter for individual schools to decide how best to approach gift-giving.

You Shouldn’t Have!

Children like to show their appreciation so buying a present for their class teacher is almost an end of term tradition and ritual but parents shouldn’t feel obliged to. But there is a pressure to do something and gifting etiquette is tricky with lots of unwritten rules.

A class gift is now commonplace where there is a ‘whip-round’ organised by one parent on behalf of everyone else – some parents contribute to this and still, buy an individual present as well.

Unfortunately, there are misguided websites and parenting blogs that advise parents what to buy their teachers for the end of term!

But gift-giving isn’t expected and it isn’t necessary. It can also leave teachers and some children feeling very awkward. Gifts range from chocolate, wine, ties, ‘smellies’, mugs, teddies, retail cards, opera tickets, jewellery… and beyond.

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Buying presents can damage relationships especially when children start comparing who bought what fuelled by the anxieties of their Mum- or Dadzillas.

Some presents melt your heart though – you know the ones, the heart and soul home-made creations that have taken hours to make. Those are priceless.

Sometimes you don’t get anything at all, not even a thank you. Okay, a polite thank you would be nice but we shouldn’t expect that either. It’s a job. Do we thank the train driver every time we get off a train? They never get a tip!

Blame The Shops

We’ve got to blame something or someone so let’s take a pop at the shops for the crazy culture of present-giving. Teaching unions have often pointed out that present giving has become over-commercialised and competitive. Christmas and the end of the summer term are the two big hitters.

Of course, it isn’t just the shops but ruthless retailers have jumped on a bandwagon, pumped the balloons and made teddies and mugs devoted to ‘The World’s Best Teacher’ a tacky side-show to keep them going until Back To School promotions (which ironically start the day after we break up).

But then we could blame ‘the system’ too.

In some of the top independent schools, the spectre of corruption has been reported as a concern with some staff being showered with vulgar and expensive gifts in order to buy favouritism, obtain better treatment and to “make sure my child is always on the radar”

Buying gifts to curry favour is rare but it is there.

Thanks But No Thanks

To avoid confusion, miscommunication and embarrassment, many schools have a Gift Giving Policy and adopt strict guidelines about what is acceptable. For example,

If a gift is received from a student or the parent/s of a student and the value is £20 or over this gift is to be registered in the Register of Gifts and Hospitality. If a gift is received from a group of students (i.e. more than 3 students) and the value of the gift is £50 or over this gift is to be registered in the Register of Gifts and Hospitality. Unions have recommended that a maximum limit on gifts needs to be set. A cap is a sensible idea and for any gifts that do get given worth over £50, they can be raffled off.

There are other alternatives some schools have adopted such as:

1. Gifting the school

Instead of gifting an individual teacher, why not give parents the option of gifting the school? If head teachers are having to run marathons to save staff being sacked because of budget cuts then what’s wrong with saying ‘support our school’ SOS style? No wine please, we need your money!

2. Give to charity

Instead of gifting presents you could accept ‘donations’ of money that then goes directly to a charity or collection of charities. For example, Practical Action offers a range of educational gifts for teachers to transform the lives of poor people around the world.

No Surprises

Giving presents is not at all as simple as it used to be. It can cause resentment and spoil the end of the year rather than put the cherry on top which is why a national code of conduct would help enormously to help teachers and parents avoid the trauma and guide behaviour.

If parents want to give then they should definitely not go overboard but opt for personal tokens of appreciation or small gifts as appropriate gestures.

Expecting nothing is definitely the best policy.

N.b. Quoted in the Financial Times:  Should you buy a Christmas gift for your child’s teacher?  (Claer Barrett, December 2018)

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Nope. Their employer.

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The Best Way To Find Unique and Great Gifts For Those you Love and Care About

When to Give Teachers Gifts

WhatToGetMy Instructional Article

Most teachers don’t expect any gift. They like to be appreciated for their work, of course, so they’re thrilled to receive a thoughtful card from their students. However, you don’t think that’s enough, do you? That’s why you’ve decided to give your kid’s teacher a gift. After all, he/she is the one responsible for his well-being when you and your partner aren’t around. One thing you don’t know is when to give teachers gifts . Should it be on a special occasion, a holiday, or any day is fine?   Teacher gift-giving etiquette is tricky, but don’t worry, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the right time to give gifts to teachers.

Before we get further down the article, we’d like to note a few things:

• If you want to give your kid’s teacher a gift, you’ll need to learn how to set clear boundaries. Some things like personal items or clothes are inappropriate.
• Teachers’ favorite gifts are, as we mentioned, the one made by kids to show appreciation. Whether it’s making a card, a drawing or a bracelet, you’ll need to  teach your kid how to give back.
• You can always choose to pool money with other parents, so you can get one quality gift.

Should you give gifts?

Table of Contents

You might think that gifts are always welcomed, but let’s examine whether you should buy gifts to teachers or not.

Most teachers said that gifts are not needed. Some people can’t afford them and if everybody is buying presents, then there’s too much social pressure on less fortunate families. However, if you give them a gift they wouldn’t refuse to receive it as long as it’s not too expensive. You want to bring them joy, not make everybody uncomfortable with excessive generosity.

A thank-you card is always welcomed! Every kid should make one to show appreciation to his/her teacher. As a parent, you can add a gift to that card, that’s your decision.

Giving a gift is a great way to show thanks to the person who’s been there for your kid the entire year. Teachers spend half their day with your child! They are helping him/her grow up to be a doctor, scientist, an artist, etc. They work long hours for low wages and aren’t generally appreciated in society, so it’s up to the parent and kids to show them the gratitude. We can all agree that you shouldn’t get an expensive gift, but it is needed to give one, no matter how small it might be.

What present should you give?

If you’re been carefully reading, you already know that the gift you give to teachers shouldn’t be expensive. It should be a small but well-thought-of gift. We’ll give you some examples:

Thank-you notes

As mentioned, thank-you notes can be a thoughtful standalone gift. They also might be attached to another gift like chocolates. Time and effort you and your kid will put into making a thank-you card is the gift that can melt any teacher’s heart!

Help your child be crafty. When making  a card, try to specify what things you’re both grateful for (improving math skills, encouraging the love for literature, etc). Acknowledging the teacher’s contribution to your child’s development will mean so much to him/her.

Note that high school teachers have the toughest time. Working with teenagers is hard on its own, but not getting any positive feedback from your students is even worse. Encourage your teen to write a thoughtful card that can make a huge impact on his/her teacher’s day.

When choosing a gift for teachers you can always get a gift card for a local coffee shop or office supply store. What every teacher needs is a constant flow of caffeine and supply for class. We know that it’s the school’s job to provide essentials for the class but often that’s not the case. Teachers give their own money to provide all the needed supplies like pencils, markers, sticky notes, etc. Some even spend   up to a thousand dollars annually on school supplies, so it’s nice to help them with it when you can.

If you’d like to get something for them and not the class, a gift card for a nice restaurant or a movie theater could be a great option too. Include your kids in your choice making. They might know what kind of places his/her teacher visit. Also, it’s best to let your kids   give gift cards to teachers .

Don’t worry about how much to spend on teacher gift cards . Consider that a gift card should cover at least one meal in a restaurant or 1-2 items in a store. Anything more than 20$ is excessive, so let that be the top limit.

Gifts to avoid

Don’t give mugs as gifts to teachers. Anything that has “#1 teacher” on it should definitely be avoided. They already have so many of those items, trust us.

Don’t try to surprise a teacher with a home cooked meal. We’re not suggesting that your cooking is bad, we’re just concerned about safety. Some people have allergies you don’t know about, so it’s best to avoid giving unlabeled food as a gift.

When should you give teachers gifts?

Everyone likes to be surprised and so do the teachers. Unfortunately, you can’t randomly pick a day to give the teacher a gift. Why you might ask? Well, it’s simple actually. If your kid stands out and gives his/her teacher a gift alone, it would seem inappropriate. Somebody can think that he/she is trying to “buy” a grade. Some schools even have strict policies about gift-giving. Be sure to check them out beforehand.

What should you do then? You’ll need to find a special occasion for giving gifts. The type of holiday might even influence your choice of gifts. Let’s consider the following gift-giving opportunities:

Christmas (and other religious holidays)

Christmas gifts are always appropriate. Some schools even promote the holiday spirit, encourage kids to share and organize small parties for the kids. It doesn’t matter if your kid’s teacher celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or another holiday. You’re not giving a gift related to religion anyway.

We’d like to also mention that you shouldn’t wait for the last day to give a present because the teacher might go on a holiday sooner than it’s expected. You should let your child bring a gift one or two weeks prior to Christmas vacation.

End of the School Year

When the school year is ending, people are getting emotional. If the students and the teacher won’t see each other next year, it might be appropriate to get the teacher a goodbye gift. For the   end-of-the-year gift , you should choose something that can spark memories like a photo album with pictures and quotes from the students. It would be best to plan the gift together with other parents and children. Don’t worry about how much to spend on the teacher’s end-of-the-year gift because you’re allowed to spend a bit more if you’re getting a combined gift with other parents.

Teacher’s Day

The Teacher’s Day is established to remind us of the important role teachers have. They educate our youth and try to set them on the right path. However, they’re not always recognized for the hard work they do. We’re not talking only about the salary. Recognition should be wider than a monthly paycheck. Society needs to give more respect to the teaching profession. That’s what this holiday should be about.

You can show your care with gifts, of course, but it might be better to start a group project or a fundraiser, so the teachers in your school could have better working conditions. That means gathering money for school supplies, giving them more breaks, etc. It’s not only up to the school administration to fix everything. You, as a parent, can come help out in school, for example at homecoming dances, Christmas parties, or some other event that needs to have an adult chaperone.

Valentine’s Day

Most teachers use a holiday like Valentine’s Day to teach kids about caring for another person. They think it’s important to show kids what love can be like, even at a young age. Classroom projects like making valentine cards or trading gifts build a healthy and friendly environment. A small gift for the teacher might be okay if other parents agree, but the holiday is not about the teachers. It’s about a gift exchange between classmates. Make a decision depending on the opinions of other parents.

Teacher’s Birthday

If you know the date of the teacher’s birthday, you should definitely consider giving a gift. It shouldn’t be personal of course but a small token of affection or a gift card. Note that other parents might not know about the date of the birthday, so try to notify them in advance.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is not the most typical gift-giving opportunity. It might be odd to give a gift to a teacher on Thanksgiving but it wouldn’t be inappropriate. Consider helping your kid make a handmade centerpiece or a Thanksgiving-themed photo frame.

Frequently asked questions on when to give teachers gifts

• What do teachers really want for gifts?

Teachers would appreciate any gift a kid has made. Other welcomed gifts are supplies for the classroom, gift cards, gift baskets, etc. 

• Is it weird to give your teacher a gift?

It’s not weird to give teachers gifts but you should wait until the school term is over and grades are registered. That way there wouldn’t be any bias when grading papers. 

• Is giving gifts to teachers good?

A little ornament or a card that a student has made just for them is something teachers will cherish for a long time, so gifts to teachers are definitely a good thing. 

• Is wine an appropriate teacher gift?

Giving a teacher a bottle of wine is completely acceptable. If the teacher doesn’t drink alcohol, they can choose to re-gift the bottle.   

• Do you give gifts to middle school teachers?

Middle school teachers usually do not receive as many gifts as elementary teachers but they’ll surely appreciate the gifts when they do receive them.

• Can I give a teacher cash?

Giving cash to a teacher isn’t appropriate because it seems like bribery.

We hope that now you have a better idea about when to give teachers gifts . Remember that not every occasion is perfect, so choose the time for giving carefully. Overall the most important thing is teaching kids to appreciate the people in their life, whether those are teachers, grandparents or other people close to the family.

Holidays are the best time to spread joy, so try to open your heart and be more generous and kind. There are a lot of   ways to show generosity to others , so don’t hesitate to try.

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INEXPENSIVE GIFTS FOR NIECES AND NEPHEWS

GRANDPARENT-GRANDCHILD ACTIVITY SET

A Warning About Gifts for Teachers: READ THIS Before You Buy!

By: Author Lillie Marshall

Posted on Published: January 12, 2023  - Last updated: November 7, 2023

“Which holiday gifts should I get for my child’s teachers?”

“what is the best teacher appreciation gift, or end of year present”, “how can i show our school’s educators that i am thankful for their hard work”.

The answer to these questions is not what most people think. I’ve been a teacher for 17 years, and I urge you read the following thoughts before popping your gifts into a teacher’s hands. First and foremost:

GIFTS FOR TEACHERS ARE PROBLEMATIC .

Yes, we DO want to be appreciated (and I’ll talk more about ways to do that effectively in a moment), but… consider the following issues with educator gift-giving.

1. Gifts raise ethical and fairness concerns.

Legally, most public school teachers are not allowed to accept gifts worth more than $50, but even if a family gives me a $5 gift, I think about the time and labor that went into it… and frankly, feel uncomfortable.

First, I feel uncomfortable because I empathize with the financial and time stress that gifts incur (even “inexpensive” ones). I never want to be a cause of extra stress, and being a parent myself, I know that the organizational effort to buy or create presents is not small.

Second, there is an awkward question of whether expectations are attached to the gift in terms of altered treatment. Now, I’m sure most families have no intention of bribing a teacher through cookies and mugs, but there are still strange feelings that arise — especially when I receive mid-year gifts while I’m still grading essays. I would never alter my grades based on gifts, but I do have the thought, “How must it feel for a mother to see a ‘D’ given by a teacher to her son, after she spent hours wrapping gifts?” It’s not an ideal combination.

2. Not everyone can afford gifts — either in money or time.

What I dislike most about gifts for teachers is the pressure they place on families who do not have the resources — be it in time or money — to keep up with the “gift giving arms race.” Anyone who is on a message board or social media group for a school can tell you that things get out of hand quickly when discussing educator presents.

Parent 1: “I’m thinking of getting Ms. X a $20 Target gift card. Do you think that’s enough?”

Parent 2: “Oh my gosh — are you all giving gifts to all the teachers?! I didn’t realize I was supposed to! Do we have to give them to the Guidance Counselors too??? I’d better run to the store!” And so on.

All of a sudden, the mother who is working three jobs is “forced” to squeeze in an extra trip to the store, and extra two hours of present organization in order to not “be rude” or “look bad.”

PLEASE, if you start feeling this pressure to give presents and are feeling terrible about it, STEP AWAY, AND DO NOT GIVE GIFTS . It is not worth it. More on alternatives later, but know that no teacher is going to hate you if you don’t give a gift. Presents are NOT required, nor expected, and in many cases they just cause problems.

3. Gifts often perpetuate sexism.

In my experience as a teacher and a parent, gift giving organization duties fall 99% of the time on the female head of household. Moreover, the time, money, and energy burden that falls on these women is not cheap.

As a teacher, I do not want to be part of the mental load thrust unfairly upon my fellow females in any way. I would much rather the women of the world get an extra two hours of sleep than shop for me — or better yet, help their children organize their backpacks!

4. There ARE things teachers need and want… but standard gifts usually aren’t it.

Are there items I would like to have? Sure, but for the most part I’d just prefer to buy them for myself. While I appreciate the sentiment of the gifts I’ve gotten from families in my two decades of teaching, the reality is that almost none of them fit in my life or home.

For example: I’m allergic to most lotions and rarely eat sugar, so any beauty products or sweets are just re-gifted, which feels odd. I have small cabinets at home, and there is no more room for mugs. I have a very minimalistic classroom and don’t like to shop at large chain stores, so most gift cards are unnecessary. Again, I would prefer that the mothers of the world spend those hours and dollars on something and someone who needs their efforts.

What are the BEST teacher gifts, then?

If most presents for teachers are problematic, then HOW do we show appreciation? Great question, and the solution is far easier than most realize — and far cheaper, too!

A. The #1 best teacher gift is a letter.

I don’t know any teacher in the world who doesn’t appreciate a note of appreciation that describes specific ways the educator has done well that year. If you’re hand writing the letter, the paper doesn’t even need to be fancy — plain paper works just as well as, if not better than, a glittery $8 card… and incurs less guilt about cost. Even simpler, email is ideal because it is fast, free (except for time), and the teacher can print it out if they want a tangible version.

What should you write about? The key is to use specific details . Tell a story of something your child said about the teacher, or highlight a major skill or idea they refined with your child, or a quirky and delightful aspect that your family enjoys about the class. Trust me — you will make the teacher’s day with a letter like this… and they will treasure it for years to come.

B. The other best gift is something the class or school as a whole actually needs.

If you want your gift to be 100% appreciated and embraced, reach out to the teacher or school and find out what they actually need. While I feel awkward about accepting personal gifts, I am ecstatic about helping our school as a whole to get items that will directly benefit students.

Here are some examples of great gifts that could come out of families asking for what a class or school needs, and providing it:

• A group of parents pool together donations to buy a printer for one ELA class, which will be used for years to come.

• An even bigger group of parents combine donations to build raised planters in the school playground, which generations of children can then use to learn about gardening.

• One family gifts a lovely $5 wall hanging, after brainstorming with the teacher about how to cover a cracking classroom wall. Another purchases a great young adult book for the class library to replace one that has gone missing.

• Another set of families pools funds to help a teacher set up an ergonomic sit-stand desk to address back pain. (Note: If purchasing something big like furniture, make sure to be in communication with the teacher or school about what actually fits, or opt for gift cards to cover it.)

• A generous set of neighbors arranges for meals and gift cards to be donated for students who very much need them that year. Others support a local BIPOC-owned company to buy educational toys holiday gifts for kids, or for classrooms.

My point: If you REALLY want to give a present (gift giving does make some people happy), I encourage you to reach out to the teacher or school to ask what they would actually find useful and nice.

For some teachers, a school supply store gift card for individual use is great, but for others, they would much rather the gift-givers interface directly with the school as a whole, and pool their efforts and do something truly impactful. Teachers can usually direct you to the administrator in charge of whole-school giving.

Which gifts are best for preschool and daycare workers, or teachers not earning a solid wage?

Time for an important disclaimer: I am a public school teacher making a livable salary. THIS NOT THE CASE FOR MANY TEACHERS — particularly those in early childhood education, or those without union protections.

If you suspect that your child’s teacher is not making a living wage, by all means feel free to individually give them presents of gift cards, useful items, or even cash — if and only if you can afford it, yourself , and if the gifts fall within the ethics of the particular school. When in doubt, ask the teacher if they would be comfortable accepting a gift, or if there is a present which would be especially appreciated.

Gifts and “ Love Languages “

Wait, why are we suddenly talking about “love” in an article about teachers?! Don’t worry — the concept of “ 5 Love Languages ” refers to the idea that people show and receive appreciation in varied rankings of five forms: Gifts, Acts of Service, Quality Time, Touch, and Words of Affirmation.

Everyone has different love language rankings, and this is vital to bear in mind when deciding if or how to give presents to teachers. In fact, people who rank “Receiving Gifts” low on their love language list may find presents downright stressful in ANY context , school-based or beyond.

The importance of individual love languages is two-fold: 1) When in doubt, ask the teacher (or other individual) what they want as a gift — and if they even want one at all. 2) Do not exhaust yourself buying gifts for someone who might actually feel more appreciated via another love language, such as “Words of Affirmation” — aka, a nice email.

Summary of this Teacher Gift Advice :

The most important message to take away from this article is that if you enjoy giving teachers gifts , great — do what feels good to you, keeping in mind what will be the most useful and fitting gift for the educator, their classroom, or the school. If giving presents brings you happiness, go right ahead!

However, if you are one of the 80% of humans who find gift giving stressful, I implore you to realize: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO GIVE TEACHERS GIFTS . It breaks my heart to see the anguish families feel each year around this topic. If you want to show appreciation to teachers, a letter will more than suffice.

There is no need to pour so much time and money into presents. So many other methods exist to show love to our world’s dear educators. Heck — you could even advocate for pro-education legislation and make systemic change.

What are YOUR opinions on presents for educators?

There’s my take on the teacher gift question, after 17 years as an educator and seven years as a parent. But what about YOU? If you’re a teacher, which gifts do you like and not like? If you’re a parent or guardian, what have you felt around gift giving and schools? If you’re an administrator, what would you like to see happen around gifting and education? Do share!

The author, Lillie Marshall, is a 6-foot-tall National Board Certified Teacher of English from Boston who has been a public school educator since 2003. She launched TeachingTraveling.com in 2010 to share expert global education resources, and over 1.6 million readers have visited over the past decade. Lillie also runs AroundTheWorld L.com Travel and Life Blog, and DrawingsOf.com for educational art. Do stay in touch via subscribing to her monthly newsletter, and following @WorldLillie on social media!

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Sunday 17th of March 2024

No teachers think about gifts in this way. We all want good stuff and are excited when we get it. We literally compare at the end of the day before Christmas break to see who got the good stuff. It is one of the things we mention to each other when we get a new class list. We’d set up a tipping app to allow parents to tip if we can get away with it. To anybody reading this, do not listen to the advice of this woman. She speaks only for herself and she is very much in the minority. Tip or gift your teachers like any other person that offers a service in any other industry. Also, your teacher is very appreciative when they do receive a gift and by no means considers it as suggesting the parents expects certain behavior from the teacher.

Lillie Marshall

Thank you for adding your perspective. My main aim in writing this article is to take pressure off families who currently do not have funds or time to provide gifts for all their children’s teachers. I agree with you that some teachers do enjoy gifts, but want to emphasize that gifts are not a requirement or expectation — especially when times are tough for families.

Mandy Campling

Wednesday 24th of January 2024

Hi I brought my son's teacher.....he's not just a teacher he is a very smart considerate caring also loving teacher that has made my son into the nearly young adult that he will become for the rest of his life I brought a £300 gift voucher for a weekend away for his wife and doggy he's been teaching my son for 5 years and he's never had a break or a day off I didn't get him any gifts over the years as I was saving him a huge gift like this for end of school life but due to the gift policy they gave me it back which has really upset me in my opinion if I can afford to do this then I should be able to and it's my money also if i couldn't afford it then I wouldn't have he was so grateful he said he didn't deserve it which in my opinion says a lot about him as a teacher and person but he was so excited but then to be taken away but my son is leaving soon so could I still give it to his teacher when he leaves as I don't want him to be dismissed from school because of me still wanting him to have this gift so I would like to know is the policy on gifts still the same many thanks

Friday 26th of January 2024

Hi Mandy, That sounds very frustrating that you wanted to acknowledge the great work of the teacher, and were fully able to afford it, but it was blocked by the school policy. My suggestion is to definitely honor the school policy, because it's in place for important reasons, but talk directly to the teacher about what will work best for you to show your appreciation, within the framework of what is allowed. Best of luck, and thank you for your kindness and generosity.

Wednesday 20th of December 2023

Thank you for this insight. I was absolutely heart broken to hear an emotional well being teacher telling a colleague that she wasn't even going to be able to afford a Christmas dinner this year because of the cost of living crisis. That's what brought me here, because me and my wife have bought her everything she needs to cook a Christmas dinner,a box of chocolates and a small present to give her on the last day before they break up. I hope I get a good reaction when I give her the things tomorrow, and isn't offended or anything.She is so great at her job,as I have found out through the work shes done with my kids over the past year,but certainly her salary doesn't seem to reflect upon that.

It sounds like you got her the perfect gift, and I thank you for your generosity and care!!!

This article is ridiculous! Maybe if you are a regular ed teacher this might make you happy to read, but as a special ed teacher that deals with behaviors and violence most days, I want a gift!!!! I would never tell a parent whose child is in my class but GET REAL! Give me something (other than a letter) that shows you appreciate the hard work and effort that I put in everyday. I deal with being sworn at, kicked, scratched, and punched on a daily. In most cases my staff and I are more of a parent because I have not only teach hygiene, but I also buy it out of my pocket. Kids come in dirty, I buy clothes so their peers don't bully them.

Very important points. Thank you for sharing your perspective!

Friday 15th of December 2023

Thank you so much for this. I'm definitely in the category of people who do not have "gift giving" as a love language, but don't want people to feel unappreciated at Christmas time. Give too little and you're thoughtless, but too much and you're in bribery territory. This is an immense source of stress for me.

But I've been doing the things you suggest throughout the school year, so I think in reality, my son's teacher knows she is appreciated. I will send her a Christmas note as well, but this article relieves stress about an accompanying gift. Thank you.

So glad to help alleviate some stress! It definitely sounds like you’re doing a beautiful job showing appreciation!

Find a store

100+ teacher appreciation gift ideas to say “thanks for all you do”.

In 6th grade, my homeroom teacher made us illustrated, laminated bookmarks—each one a custom collage of our interests, complete with a yarn ball on top. They were so cool—I kept that thing for years! But wait, shouldn’t WE have given HER a gift instead?

Now we know better! Whether your child is a well-behaved model student or a bit of a challenge, there are so many reasons to thank teachers for their patience, resilience and positive energy. Let alone for all the wonderful things they do throughout the school year!

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Day (and Week!), here’s a wide-ranging compilation of all the teacher appreciation gift ideas you could ever need to help you find the perfect shoutout for any kind of instructor, mentor, coach or role model.

Inspired? Create and share by tagging @HallmarkStores .

Know what kind of teacher appreciation gift you’re hunting for? Use the links below to jump right to the sections you’re interested in.

• Daycare teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Food and beverage teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Preschool and kindergarten teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Clever or funny teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Elementary teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Unique and creative teacher appreciation gift ideas
• High school teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Simple DIY teacher appreciation gift ideas
• College mentor or professor appreciation gift ideas
• Useful or handy teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Last-minute or easy teacher appreciation gift ideas
• Inexpensive or free teacher appreciation gift ideas

Daycare teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Anyone with a kid in daycare (or anyone who’s seen Toy Story 3) knows about the mild pandemonium that happens in even the nicest, chillest daycares. Our daycare teachers wade into that light chaos voluntarily every day to make our lil ones feel safe and cared for when work and other obligations keep us away. This list would qualify as the least we could do!

• Blissful sounds. Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds, for use during naptimes, of course! 🙂
• Therapeutic words. Give them an easy way to channel some of their unexpressed thoughts with a cool journal, like this hardcover notebook .
• Gift cards. Don’t overthink this one. It could be for anything: a spa, meal delivery service, the movies, etc.
• Stay hydrated. It’s tough keeping ourselves properly H 2 O’d while keeping up with littles, so a customizable water bottle or this water jug are good gifts.
• Make it smell better. Daycare life can be an aromatically challenging one, so why not add some more pleasing scents to their day? Like a wickless candle or natural oatmeal or vanilla lotion.
• Make it look nicer. Daycare life can also be a messy one, so how about a gift basket filled with cleaning-themed things, like natural wipes, good-smelling soaps and sanitizers, laundry pens or even a cleaning service for their own home?
• Ahh, me time. Give something that says “spa day” like a cooling eye mask, lavender neck wrap, fuzzy slippers ( maybe these ?) and a robe they can relax in after a long day/week/month/year.
• Ahh, springtime. Celebrate the start of planting season with a gift card to a local greenhouse or nursery, or gift them an indoor herb-garden kit with tiny terra cotta pots.
• Ahh, nuts. Allergies often prevent teachers from enjoying almonds, pecans or cashews in class. Give them a fun sampler to take home, possibly even the pricey kinds you don’t normally buy for yourself.
• Crossbody bag. Always handy. Especially when chasing after toddlers means you’re constantly on the go.
• Mini coffeemaker. Not everyone wants whatever medium roast the group in the break room is brewing. Get them their own one-cup coffee maker or single-serving tea kettle.
• Grown-up games. The kids have plenty of their own fun stuff, so how about a grown-up activity book for easy sketching or with a bunch of word games?
• Toys for these tots. Notice any classic toy they might not already have enough of, and/or the kids have trouble sharing? Like alphabet blocks or cars and trucks? They might appreciate having an additional set.
• Give ’em a hand. If you know the other parents well enough, you could organize a personalized book of all the kids’ handprints, or as many as you can wrangle.

Preschool and kindergarten teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Preschool and kindergarten are the years when we (forgive the buzzword-y phrasing) set them up for success. So basically, these teachers spend their time and energy every day trying to give our kids a brighter, better future! This is the bare minimum of ways we could think of to say thanks. Sensing a common theme here?  

• Recess time! When the kiddos are outside, sometimes you need a little help keeping things together, so try a scarf with a zip enclosure for their phone, keys, badge, etc.
• Quiet time. How about a pair of noise-canceling headphones? For use at home, of course. 🙂
• Keep it together. A gift basket that could include anything on the organizational tip, from cute hair ties to this 3-pack of note pads to a gift card from a container-focused store.
• Movie night. Haven’t they seen enough movies about singing snails or whatever? Give them a gift card for the closest multiplex or indie theater. Or microwave popcorn, theater snacks and soda for the “I’d rather stream something at home” kinda nights.
• A little relief. This is one of those “kidding/not kidding” kinds of gifts—an industrial-sized bottle of headache meds.
• Catch the moment. Gift an instant camera to capture all those end-of-year memories with nostalgic flair.
• Just my mug. If you’re going with something expected like a coffee/tea mug, add a personal element with this single letter monogram . We have a bunch of ideas for turning mugs into cute gift bundles here !
• Comforts of home. Give them something to enjoy a relaxing evening or weekend with, like nice candles or wax melts, a self-care basket with balms and lotions, a heated neck wrap or essential oils with a diffuser .
• Act local. Grab them a gift card from your favorite local coffee shop, bakery or bookstore.
• Go big. Also, nothing wrong with defaulting to a gift card for a big box store, home goods store, dollar store or one of the big online merchants to let them pick from a huge variety of things.
• Pop culture T-shirt. Do you know one of their favorite shows or movies? Get them a T-shirt featuring a quote or main character. (Psst…lots more pop culture gift ideas here !)
• Duly noted. Stickers are fun if they’re a stickers kinda person, and stationery sets are handy if they’re a note-writing kinda person, so if they’re both, why not combine them with this set ?

Elementary teacher appreciation gift ideas  

As our kids go through the “reading, writing, arithmetic” years, there’s often a homeroom teacher who students know as their “base” every day. But grade school is when we start seeing the real influence of a cross-section of teachers with specific expertise, as the kids venture out of homeroom to do science experiments, take math proficiency exams, go on field trips, etc. So, more folks to thank, yes, but lots of opportunities to do so in fun, specific ways!  

• Art from the heart. Ask your child to paint or draw something that represents their gratitude, then pair it with something like this “spread good deeds” card.
• Adventure times. Did your kid’s teacher take the class on fun field trips? Then here are the perfect socks , featuring the Beagle Scout troop .
• For the playground. When it’s a little rainy outside but not enough to keep them inside for recess, here’s another Snoopy-themed idea, a Beagle Scout umbrella with case.
• Game night. What are the two or three games you play the most at home, with the kids or with the grown-ups? Pick one of those and roll the dice, so to speak. How well do you know them? If the answer is pretty well, you could even pick one of the PG-13 games.
• Simply beautiful. These displayable figurines say it all—here’s one about learning , this one specifically says thank you , and then this one with the apple kinda makes fun use of a common teaching icon.
• Mini fridge. If the school allows them and they don’t already have one, a mini fridge is dang delightful to have around for beverages, lunch bags, leftovers or snacks.
• Crunch time. Speaking of snacks, are they more of a chip or popcorn person? Can’t go wrong there.
• Simply said. For their desk, we love the simplicity of this wooden quote sign .
• Jot it down. Find out what their favorite type of pen is (medium-tip gel? ballpoint?) and get them several or a variety of colors in that type. Or one of these elegant options in pink peony or blue marble . And if you feel like splurging for a Star Wars™ fan, this Millennium Falcon™ desk accessory with pen .
• The right notes. For a choir or band teacher, how about a music shop gift card?
• Go time. Mini backpack filled with travel-sized goodies and maybe a travel journal for whatever time away they might have planned over the summer, even if it’s just a day trip.
• Soft landing. How about a comfy cushion for the desk chair? Or a massaging back pad? And if you’re feeling spendy, a foot-massaging machine for under the desk!

High school teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Unlike daycare, daily pandemonium in high school is driven by the fact that you’re putting a ton of teenagers, aka “Almost Adults,” in one place every day. That means lots of high jinks, some colorful language, clubs, sports, activities, some romance, phones, social media…and they’re driving, too! So many things happening at once. It can add a lot of emotional weight and baggage to an already tough time of life, and our high school teachers are experts at navigating this period! Here are some teacher appreciation gift ideas to thank them for that:

• Hallmark + Venmo = win! The only thing better than a card is a card with money in it. And in this case, the money can go right into their Venmo account! This “thumbs up” card , for example, could be just the right delivery system for any amount you can gather, whether it’s just from you or the whole class.
• Local lit. Get them a nice hardcover of a favorite (or could-be-a-new-favorite) book from a local bookstore. Don’t know what to pick? Go with a gift card or the gift of an audiobook service subscription.
• Go green. Pick a nice indoor plant or mini tree for their home/office. Might seem like a no-brainer but isn’t that a good thing when you’re…stumped?
• Embracing individuality. Celebrate the fact that your teacher does great work in acknowledging each student’s unique self with this card .
• Recipe for goodness. Whip up your go-to homemade treats and then include the actual recipe in a gorgeous card like this , or this personalized and punny card that lets you add a photo .
• Easy-peasy snackies. No time to make anything? Grab a variety of snacks or some nice chocolates and add a simple card like this one .
• The gift of clean. Anyone who knows a high school teacher will tell you that basic cleaning supplies (tissue boxes, wipes, sanitizers, air fresheners) are often sorely needed at the end of the year, since the contributions from parents for those things tend to taper off a bit as the kiddos get older.
• Ahh, me time. Something to help with a chill-down moment, like a gift card for spa/massage or a meditation app subscription service. You might sense that giving them easy ways to relax away from school is a recurring theme here, as it should be for a profession as tough as this one.
• Night in. A meal-prep service gift card = simple and universally enjoyed. Or, depending on how tough the year was—or if they’re dealing with something extra difficult—maybe pool resources with other parents and set up a meal train.
• Night out. The me time doesn’t have to be indoors. For the extrovert, try a gift basket for a night on the town with gift cards to local eateries, theater companies, tours, museums or performance venues, paired with one for a ride-sharing app.
• Night out with friends. See if you can pool your resources with some other parents to get a large group gift card, or several smaller ones, to a restaurant or wine bar where a group of colleagues could gather. They can sip, relax and maybe vent just a bit about some things.
• Adjust the temp. Does the school blast the AC? Or are they just naturally cold all the time? How about getting them a nice lap blanket?
• We’re big fans. For a teacher who’s also a coach, how about tickets to the closest college or professional team’s next home game? A gift card to a local merch store would also be a great idea.

College mentor or professor appreciation gift ideas  

Here we have Actual Adults™, but ones who still benefit from the wisdom and experience that professors, TAs, RAs, mentors and advisers can offer. Including everything from where to find your dorm room during freshman year to where and how to apply for a job that’s right for you once you graduate. Here are just a few college mentor or professor teacher appreciation gift ideas to say thanks for that wide range of assistance.  

• That’s lit. Are there any particular books that the used in class, a talented new author’s work or a piece of classic literature, something that you had great conversations about? Maybe you could find a special edition or signed copy?
• Go green. Again, this is kind of an easy and obvious one, but it’s hard to go wrong with a nice indoor plant for their home or office environments, fern or succulent, etc.
• Go, fight, win, eat! Arrange for a local bakery to drop off a sweet treat to their office or department.
• Campus merch. Sure, they already get a discount from the bookstore, but they don’t have unlimited funds to buy things in there. So treat them to a gift card at the shop, coffee hangout, etc.
• Set it down. How about a set of marble or agate coasters? Always useful, and it has more of that “from one grown-up to another” kind of vibe.
• Toast the year. A gift card to a local liquor store, a bottle of something they’ll be sure to enjoy or a subscription to a wine box site. (See above “grown-up to grown-up” thing.)
• Wise words. A displayable sentiment/gift for their office, something more sweet and sincere like this or something a little more funny and possibly in-jokey like this .
• Purposely awkward performance? How well do you know the members of the university’s choir? How about drama majors or the improv troupe? Some kind of sing-a-gram? You could ask any or all of the above to show up during a class and sing or perform a custom lil ditty just for them, to make them laugh and obviously cringe a bit.

Food and beverage teacher appreciation gift ideas  

These next few categories will focus on the kinds of gifts that could work across various types and levels of the profession. And we’re starting with food and drink teacher appreciation gift ideas because…hey, who doesn’t like to eat and drink stuff? If they aren’t meat eaters, they like fruits and veggies. If they aren’t coffee people, they like tea. The point is, there are so many food-and-beverage-themed gifts to choose from. This is just a quick sampling.  

• Home sweet home. Homemade candies like wafers, chocolate-covered pretzels or peppermints.
• Kernels of wisdom. Giving your teacher a sampler with various popcorn flavors? That’s just smart.
• Tea time. Not everyone who likes tea has a loose-leaf tea holder or an infuser. And for the pre-bagged teas, how about a traveling tea wallet?
• Coffee combo. A sampler of local coffees of varying roast levels.
• Chocolate combo. A sampler of fancy chocolates, either from a local chocolatier or just the grocery store.
• Best of both worlds: Chocolate-covered espresso beans!
• On the go. Anyone who likes travel mugs either has one they love that’s going to get old and break sometime soon, or one they hate and would love to replace. Try this one with a lovely thought on it or this schmancy one . Again: here are those mug gifting ideas !
• Home for the night. A gift card to a food delivery service for one of those nights when they just don’t feel like making something or going out to get something.
• Snack time. A store-bought or homemade snack mix, with or without nuts, depending on allergies.
• In the bag. A gift card to their favorite local grocery store, market, etc.
• Eat local. A fruit or vegetable basket from a local farmer’s market or treats from a local bakery.
• Best teacher ever. Is that a verifiable fact? Doesn’t really matter, does it? No one’s gonna fact-check this wine glass ! But if that hyperbole gives you pause, there’s an alternative . Again, however they’d like to fill it later, that’s up to them and OK by us! =)
• Perfect pairing? This charm with age-old teacher symbolism goes nicely with this stemless contour glass .

Clever or funny teacher appreciation gift ideas  

We spend so much time talking about class clowns that we sometimes lose sight of the fact that it’s often the teachers themselves who are the true class clowns. Maybe they like sophisticated, intellectual humor; maybe they love silly wordplay or dorky dad jokes. Regardless, here are some fun teacher appreciation gift ideas that lean on the jokier side of things:  

• Mug season. OK. We know the mug is a little “been there, done that.” But honestly, if you’re a coffee or tea drinker yourself, can you ever really have enough mugs? Of course not…don’t be silly. Or in this case, DO be silly. Like with this mug featuring an extremely narrow window for complaints .
• Really, it’s fine! if you want to go from light to dark humor, because of *gestures at everything*…how about this dumpster fire mug ? And hey, there are matching socks , too!
• Holey card! Do they love puns and wordplay? Pair any gift with this “thanks a hole punch” card .
• Cheers without beers. How about a pint glass like this but filled with candy or something else non-alcoholic? Because hey, we’re only implying or suggesting things here. Your teacher can use the glass for whatever they want later on!
• Quiet down, class! How some fancy noise-canceling headphones? To use at home, obviously. 😀
• Let it go! A paper shredder would let them dramatically dispose of their least favorite lesson plans, etc., from the semester…or to just kind of symbolically, cathartically let go of the year that was.
• Forever apple. Can you crochet or cross-stich? Then make them an apple that will last a lifetime. Pair with a self-aware quote about the seeds of learning or a pun like “core curriculum.”
• BS bingo! Make a board that includes a space for the most commonly used excuses about homework. Things like “couldn’t find backpack” or “forgot to set alarm.” Include a small, wrapped gift that they get to open when they finally get a bingo!
• Rant journal. You know, just in case they need to vent a bit about certain situations or people in a non-digital, old-school kinda way, to help them work through their feelings. Not a “Burn Book” so much as a “Learn Book.”
• Cliche alert. Get them something typically or historically worn by educators, like a wood-bead necklace or a thrift store tweed jacket with leather elbow patches and a pipe. Then pair it with something real, like a gift card.
• Quite a statement. Write them a standard five-paragraph persuasive essay that supports the central thesis that they’re the best teacher/professor/mentor ever.
• What do you meme? Make them a collection (existing or one you create yourself) of school-themed jokes and visual humor/memes.

Unique and creative teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Whether it’s a teacher with a unique specialty or simply a unique personality, traditional gifts might not feel like quite enough. You want to honor their individuality and celebrate the ways they helped you foster your own! Here are a few suggestions for unique teacher appreciation gifts that do exactly that:

• Green thumb. Does your teacher like to garden? May is the perfect time of year for new shrubs and flowers! It’s also just a great time for gifting house plants or anything green. Not sure what they’d like? Get them a small gift card to your fave local garden center.
• Bright idea. For outside, a twinkle lamp or decorative solar light/character for the garden. For inside, rechargeable, flameless candles.
• Low maintenance. For a teacher who likes the greenhouse kinda thing but wouldn’t want to be assigned the “homework” of watering something, try a potted faux plant. This one literally says “thanks for helping me grow.” Come on, that’s adorable. Or this one —same idea but more general.
• Bejeweled. If you know the teacher well enough, you could try find a classy brooch for a coat or a necklace with their first or last initial . Add a travel jewelry case for good measure!
• Make it theirs! Get them a personalized shirt, blanket or pair of socks that features a photo of their pet(s). Or a personalized stamp that features one of their most familiar catchphrases. You could even poll the class or other students who formed a good connection with the teacher for input.
• Book bouquet. Start with stems, greenery and floral paper from a floral shop, add a few titles that they’d enjoy, then wrap it all up and tie it with a ribbon.
• Cool collage. Print out versions of words meaning “gratitude” and “appreciation” from languages all over the world and make a fun, artsy mashup with them.
• Subscribe vibe. Is there anything you can’t get a subscription for these days? Pick anything from a favorite magazine to a beloved regional snack to have delivered. Voila, regular reminders of one of their favorite students.
• Scribble in style. Do they like to write by hand? Consider this classy, simple yet heartfelt approach to a stationery set . Add some well-made pens for even more of a class factor.
• Celestially cheesy. Have a star named after them to celebrate all the bright kids they’ve taught. It’s not that difficult to do since it’s not exactly official.
• That’s the ticket! Consider getting them a subject-specific pass to something they’d like—a city tour for a history teacher, a day at the museum for a science teacher, a concert for a music teacher, a gallery opening for an art teacher, a play for a drama teacher, etc.
• Unleash your thanks. For the canine-loving teacher, pair this card with some fun doggo toys. Or you can get breed-specific, if you want, like with this pair of wiener dog socks !
• Feline fest. But we can’t ignore the cat lovers. How about these kitty-themed socks ?

Simple DIY teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Don’t worry, when we say “do it yourself” in this context, we’re not talking about making a tiny panoramic replica of their desk at school (although that would be super cool). We’re just talking about straightforward and relatively painless DIY teacher appreciation gift ideas that have that extra little zhuzh of personalized flair, easy ways to show them you know them and know that they’d appreciate the extra time you spent on them.

• Make your mark. With enough planning time—about a week in advance to give things time to set—you can go to your nearest ceramic art cafe-type place and “make” a cool bowl, platter or cup. (Okay, paint, but still.)
• Best teacher ever. Ask your child to draw their own take on a special award for their teacher and frame whatever comes out of that process.
• You name it. Make them a unique name tag that they can wear (or not) for all of Teacher Appreciation Week. Be as playful as you want! Examples: Ms. Atchison, Queen of the Art Room.
• So say we all. Why not send around a giant thank-you card ( like this one or this adorable one with a smol dog holding a huge bouquet ) and get little handwritten notes from as many parents or fellow students as you can.
• Top 10 list. Take some time with your kid and brainstorm a list of your favorite moments from the school year, whether they’re hilarious or heartfelt or both.
• Top 10 list, platinum edition. Similar to the idea above, but hand out fill-in-the-blank sheets to all the parents on the down-low and have their kids write in their fave moments, then collect them and have them spiral-bound as a class gift!

Useful or handy teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Is your favorite teacher more of a pragmatic type who doesn’t really groove on sentimental stuff or things with bells and whistles? Maybe it’s a shop teacher who knows everything there is to know about tools. Or the yearbook adviser who used to work in journalism and loves to listen to myth-busting podcasts. Point is, this teacher might want something that’s a little more useful or handy to have around. Well, look no further than these teacher appreciation gift ideas!

• Bag it. Standard-issue laptop bags can be terrible: too clunky, not enough pockets, etc. Look for the most practical one you can find.
• A place for stuff. Gotta love the simple practicability of this pencil-themed trinket dish .
• A card for everything. How many times have we all had to search through various piles to find one of the unused birthday cards that we just KNOW we have somewhere? This card organizer solves that forever.
• Daily perk. We mentioned other mugs in our funny section above, but maybe your teacher isn’t the jokey type…in which case, check out this delightful mug .
• Heat it up. An electric kettle provides a quick way to make tea in the classroom.
• Charge it up. Everyone loses chargers, so having extras is never a bad thing.
• Light it up. Mini book lamps are so handy when you don’t have adequate light source nearby!
• Mini fridge. Enough said! (As long as they’re allowed in the classroom.) You could even have some fun stocking it with their favorite snacks and classroom-appropriate beverages.
• Hydration station. Who can’t use a decent water bottle, especially when it has a little encouraging thought on it like this one or this one ?
• Get it together. A small storage cube and a basic supply kit, which would work just as well at home as it would at work.
• Wait, what was it? Nothing like a simple set of sticky notes or a classic note pad like this to keep us from forgetting, you know, that one thing.
• Lunch break. Does your teacher have a nice lunch box with reusable utensils? You know what to do!
• Dinner time. Get them some restaurant gift cards. This is great for year-end, when there are a lot of tests and papers to grade and they’re probably short on time to cook.

Last-minute or easy teacher appreciation gift ideas  

“Oh crap, it’s Teacher Appreciation Day…today???” We’ve all been there before, and we’ll all be there again. But don’t worry! Waiting until the last second doesn’t have to mean your shoutout feels rushed or underthought. Here are a few quick teacher appreciation gift ideas, from practical to fun, that will make teachers feel like they’re seen and acknowledged for the worthwhile work they do every day:

• Sweet and simple. Gift them a box of chocolates or other treats, either from the store or a local bakery.
• Bottoms up. If your teacher isn’t a teetotaler, they’d likely very much appreciate a (stealthily delivered) bottle of something they might not normally buy for themselves, like some nice wine, top-shelf whiskey or a fancy microbrew.
• All tied up. Surely there’s a place in town that has pre-made gift baskets with a cool blend of local products, right? Pick a small or reasonably sized one.
• eCard = free card. No time to make it to a store? You can send your favorite teacher one of these as quickly as you can type words of thanks into your phone.
• Hit the gas. Give them a gift card to a gas station convenience store, because have you seen the many wonders in there?
• Clean up their act. Car wash gift cards can be a good idea, too. Especially since kids are notorious for finger-writing on dusty cars.
• Ooh, spicy! Anyone who enjoys all things pepper would love to have an array of small hot sauces of various brands and heat levels.
• Gift aisle. And while you’re in the grocery store, pop into their seasonal or gift aisles. There are always some randomly fun ideas in there.
• Step outside. See those pretty flowers in your garden? Trim some of them and put them in a simple vase from a craft store.
• Baked goods. Who’s gonna decline a lovely plate of homemade cookies? (Presuming there aren’t any allergies or dietary considerations.)
• Travel trinket. Pair something synonymous with summer vacation, like a cool seashell, with a “thanks for everything and have an amazing summer” kind of message to create a small gift with some yearbook-style flair.

Inexpensive or free teacher appreciation gift ideas  

Summer’s approaching, vacation plans might be on the books or in the works and it’s been a looooong school year. One of picking up random tabs for that one math or library book they lost, tickets to games, a team or club fundraiser…not to mention your other regular household expenses. Therefore, budgets might be pretty tight! If that’s your situation and you’re in need of a cheap or free teacher appreciation gift idea, here you go:

• Just a note? Totes! Sitting down and taking five minutes to write something personal, from the heart, from you and your child, can be an incredibly meaningful gesture all by itself. If you want to know what they value most in messages like those, here are some quotes from actual teachers .
• Your dash. Why not bring them a coffee or other morning beverage when dropping off your child, or a favorite afternoon snack when picking them up?
• Homemade treats. You probably already have ingredients in your kitchen somewhere for brownies, cookies or cupcakes. Bake ’em and take ’em!
• Fun size. Bring them a value bag of candy and mention specifically, jokingly, that it’s for them and NOT to be used as rewards for students (they probably do enough of that already!).
• Act local. Find the nearest farmer’s market and make them a small basket of fresh fruit, veggies or herbs.
• A plant divided. You know that succulent that’s getting too big for its planter? Take a cutting of it, replant and voila!
• Happy flowers. Cut a few from your garden and make a small bouquet in a canning jar with a friendly note attached to the top.
• Raise your hand. Just like old times, only as an adult! In this sense, we mean putting your hand up to help with any task that needs doing in their classroom—something time-consuming that they’d love to offload.
• Pieces of flair. You don’t have to work at Chotchkie’s to display enthusiasm on your outfit. (Or are you more of a PJ Calamity’s fan?) Anyway, how about a few fun pins or buttons for their ID lanyard?
• ’Tis the season. Thrifted seasonal decor to use around holidays (fall, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, spring, etc.) in the classroom, if they don’t already have a good stash of things like that.

Hopefully this list of teacher appreciation gift ideas passed the test for helpfulness! There are so many choices and versions of choices to consider here, but the main thing to remember is that if it’s coming from you and/or you child, it’s coming from the heart. And any gesture of gratitude, no matter how extravagant or simple, will be loved by any teacher who truly cares about what they do.

So don’t feel too much pressure to get this 100%, A+ correct. You can pass with flying colors with just about any genuine expression of sincere appreciation.

Looking for more gifting inspo? Here you go!

• Gifts for new parents: Thoughtful things to give and do
• 15+ creative ways to gift mugs
• 85+ anniversary gift ideas to celebrate the day you said “I do”
• 25+ “just because” gift ideas to show you care
• 10 creative ways to give cash
• teacher appreciation

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45 Best Gifts For Teachers That'll Secure Your Spot As Their Favorite Student

By Lauren Harano

Educators deserve to be celebrated all year long, but if you're preparing to say farewell for the summer, it's an excellent time to pick out the best gifts for teachers. All the teachers we polled said that what they really want to receive are pampering presents that'll help them relax after a long day in the class room, but any gift that shows you put as much thought into it as they do their lesson plans will also go a long way in showing your appreciation. Other popular picks are school supplies since they typically buy those themselves (like desk organizers, journals, and cute pens). You can also never go wrong with a thoughtful note with a gift card attached (think Starbucks, Sephora, and Target cash). The only thing the teachers we asked said they had enough of (besides apple paraphernalia) were mugs, but one trendy tumbler did make our cut.

Ready to earn your place as their favorite student? While you're shopping for special graduation gifts for your friends , snatch up one of these unique finds for your teacher too. And if you procrastinated, don't worry. There are plenty of great gifts on Amazon that'll arrive before school's out.

All products featured on Teen Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Joyula Spa Self-Care Set

Treat them to some serious self-care with the help of this cute set. It comes with two bars of lavender soaps, a lavender bath bomb, hydrating lip balm, a loofah, a satin sleep mask, and a dainty bracelet. After a long day in the classroom, they'll appreciate unwinding with this.

Rifle Paper Co. Personalized Flat Notes

Rifle Paper Co.

If you want to get the teacher in your life something unique and thoughtful, you can't go wrong with these personalized flat notes. They can be customized to resemble your favorite educator, down to their hairstyle, outfit choice, and even accessories. Trust us, these stationery sets are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kate Spade Knott Commuter Bag

If backpacks aren't their thing, opt for this ultra-chic commuter bag. Complete with a modern yet minimalist design, this bag is the perfect blend between stylish and functional. It has multiple compartments and pockets inside where they can keep their belongings organized (think: makeup products, school supplies, and more), as well as a padded laptop sleeve that will keep their device free from harm. Shop it in baby blue, light pink, and jet black.

Personalized Papier Colorblock Hardcover Notebook

There's nothing quite like jotting down ideas in a cute notebook that'll make you feel inspired, organized, and creative—and, this Papier Colorblock Hardcover Notebook will do just that. It offers ample space for lesson planning, note-taking, and brainstorming ideas, and it features a vibrant and stylish design. Plus, it has a durable hardcover and high-quality paper that make it perfect for everyday use.

By The Birthplace of Country Music Museum

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Courant Catch:3 Essentials Charging Station and Valet Tray

This innovative charging station will help keep teachers organized. It can hold and charge multiple devices at once, including phones, watches, and earbuds. Plus, its stylish design will add a dash of sophistication to any desk or bedside table.

Personalized Leather Keyring

Small and sweet, this handmade leather keyring is effortlessly thoughtful. The Etsy vendor will engrave their name, initials, or a short quote on the keyring of your choice, and you'll have a perfect personalized present. Choose between seven different colors, and your work here is done.

UrbanStems The Dinero Plant

Small but mighty, this little money tree can help enhance the air quality of any classroom, which both teachers and students will be thankful for.

Target Gift Card

Give your favorite teacher the freedom to choose a gift for themself with a Target gift card.

Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Help give their day a kickstart with a Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker. This compact machine can brew up a strong cup of coffee in minutes. Whether they need a quick pick-me-up between classes or want to sip on a cup while they grade, this coffee maker is sure to be a foolproof gift.

Herschel Backpack

When it comes to gifts teachers will actually use, you can't go wrong with something practical. This Herschel bestseller is a great go-to, thanks to its durable construction, spacious compartments, and comfortable padded straps.

Blueland The Clean Essentials Set

Keep their classrooms clean with the help of Blueland's The Clean Essentials Set. It comes with four of the brand's fan-favorite products including the beloved hand soap, multi-surface cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and glass and mirror cleaner. Each item is made with plant-based and planet-friendly ingredients that'll keep germs, grime, and dirt away.

Whiskey River Soap Company Pencils for Teachers

Affordable, practical, and to the point, this set of eight pencils will be there for them when they need to jot down ideas, erase mistakes, and more. What we love most about this set is that each pencil has a funny quote written on it, so they'll get a laugh every time they use one.

Customizable Yeti Rambler Colster Can Cooler

The end of the school year means the start of vacation! This stainless steel can cooler is the perfect gift for any teacher since it can come along with them to any summer activity. It's insulated with a double-wall vacuum so their beverages will stay cool. Plus, this product can be monogrammed if you want to add a cute, personalized touch.

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Designed to filter blue light from screens, these stylish glasses work overtime to reduce eye fatigue and redness. Plus, they're ultra-lightweight and comfortable, which means they're ideal for wearing during a school day. And, since this pack comes with two pairs, teachers can keep one at school and another at home.

Personalized Teacher Tote Bag

This cute tote will be their new favorite work bag. It has enough space for everything from books and papers to laptops and classroom essentials. You can personalize it with their name and initials or you can write a special message on it.

UGG Disquette Slippers

Treat their feet to unmatched comfort with these UGG favorites. Crafted with soft suede and lined with warm, plush wool, these slippers will help them relax at home after a long day of teaching.

HP DeskJet 2755e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

This handy wireless printer will help them effortlessly print documents, assignments, and lesson materials from anywhere.

Sephora Gift Card

TBH, you can never (and we mean never ) go wrong with a Sephora gift card. The teacher of your choice will be able to pick out their favorite cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance goodies all on their own. Whether they're looking to revamp their makeup collection or experiment with a new skincare routine, they'll be able to choose the products that'll make them look and feel their best.

Environet Hydroponic Herb Growing Kit

This little herb kit has everything they need to enjoy an indoor garden. It comes with a small net pot, a pre-seeded grow plug, and a little mason jar. Choose between an array of herbs including lavender, basil, chives, cilantro, and more. Plus, these little herbs might even make the classroom smell fresher.

Hello Fresh Meal Kit Delivery Service

Hello Fresh

Many teachers we asked said that after a long day of work, the last thing they want to do is spend time at the grocery store. This meal kit delivery service takes the hassle out of planning and shopping by providing them with everything they need to whip up delicious bites at home.

Youbetia Rose Gold Desk Organizer

This cool desk organizer features an array of compartments and drawers where they can house folders, papers, pens and pencils, notepads, and more. Shop it in a handful of different colors including rose gold, gold, silver, black, white, and pink.

Custom Book Stamp

Are they always lending out novels from their personal library? This cute, personalized stamp will let them mark their books with their name, ensuring that their classroom library stays in their classroom.

Reusable Travel Utensil Set

If your teacher brings lunch to school everyday, this cheery eco-friendly portable set of utensils comes with four forks, four spoons, four knives, and four hardshell cases that they can keep at their desk.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm

They'll be able to pamper their hands when they have this luxurious Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm. This nourishing balm is made with botanical extracts, essential oils, and shea butter, all of which work to deeply hydrate and soften the skin. Plus, it has a bright, citrus scent that'll invigorate the senses, giving any teacher a quick pick-me-up and a moment of self-care during their busy day.

Undated Kind Teacher Happy Planner

Happy Planner

They'll be able to stay organized with this cute planner. It's designed specifically for teachers and features different sections for lesson planning, goal setting, handy reminders, and more. It also has colorful layouts and inspirational quotes that'll brighten up their days. Not to mention, they'll be able to stay on top of their busy schedules.

Kate Spade Heart of Gold Idiom Bangle

Celebrate your favorite teacher's heart of gold with this gorgeous bangle. This gold-tone bracelet features a shiny exterior as well an inscription that reads “heart of gold.”

Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag

If you're going in on a class present, surprise them with a gorgeous Coach Tabby bag. This sophisticated purse is crafted from luxurious leather and features a sleek design that they'll be sure to love. Not to mention, it offers ample space for any and all essentials, making it perfect for work and everyday use. Shop it in nine different colors.

Rifle Paper Co. Hydrangea Ring Dish

Add a gorgeous touch to their desk with this dainty ring dish. This small, ceramic plate features a delicate floral pattern alongside pretty gold accents.

Letter Board

Give the teacher in your life a creative, cute, and customizable way to display their favorite messages with a letter board. Whether it's an inspirational quote, an important announcement, or a small reminder, this board will add a touch of personality to their classroom. Shop it in different colors that will best suit their classroom.

Every teacher deserves to take a breather after class. These refreshing and rejuvenating ice globes will help them restore their skin, mind, and mood in no time. Made with a cooling glass exterior, these globes are designed to be gently massaged on the face and neck. The chilly temperature works to reduce puffiness, soothe the skin, and enhance overall circulation.

Fandango Gift Card

Though they love their students (obviously), teachers told us that a present that helps them escape the stress of work is always a welcome one, and this movie gift card will do just that.

Teacher Candle

This handmade vanilla candle will light up any teacher's life…or at least, room. This thoughtful gift combines a sweet, soothing fragrance with a heartfelt message that educators are sure to love. The best part? The candle's warm glow and rich scent will create a relaxing atmosphere, which will help teachers unwind after a long day at school.

Air Purifier

Want to enhance the air quality in their classroom? We have just the thing. This air purifier has an advanced filtration system that removes allergens, pollutants, dust, and odors from the air.

BlissTrends Foot Rest

Hardworking teachers will be able to sit back and relax when they have this versatile footrest under their desks. This cool product is designed to alleviate leg and foot pain and fatigue as well as promote better posture and overall circulation. The best part? It can be adjusted to different heights and angles so they can enjoy personalized comfort.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera

They'll be able to cherish fun classroom memories with the help of this Fujifilm Instax Mini 11. With automatic exposure settings and a selfie mode, this compact camera is perfect for capturing fun moments, big milestones, and more. Teachers can even create a fun photo wall in their classroom with the pictures from the year.

Mini Projector

This mini projector will allow teachers to project images, videos, and presentations anytime, anywhere. It offers adjustable brightness and connectivity options, making this small device extremely easy to use. It also comes with a mini stand, carry bag, and portable power station, which means they can use it indoors and outdoors.

Kindle Paperwhite

If they already have enough books weighing them down, we have a solution. This Kindle Paperwhite is ultra-lightweight and won't take up much space in their book bag. With built-in adjustable lighting and a glare-free screen, they can catch up on their favorite reads no matter where they might be.

Beats Fit Pro x Kim Kardashian Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Teachers will be able to tune out the noise with these cool earbuds. They offer next-level sound quality, active noise cancellation, and a sleek, comfortable fit that'll allow them to listen to their favorite music, podcasts, and more without dealing with distractions.

Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case

Mark & Graham

Summer travels never looked so good! This chic Mark & Graham jewelry case will keep their favorite pieces safe and organized while they take some much-needed time off. This compact and stylish case features multiple compartments, including a ring roll and earring holder, which will securely store and protect their jewelry. To make this present even more thoughtful, add a personalized monogram.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Both practical and stylish, this fan-favorite bag will keep their belongings right where they need them. It features multiple pockets as well as a spacious main compartment that can house their keys, phone, wallet, and more. It also has an adjustable strap that will allow them to create a customized fit, making this piece both comfortable and convenient.

Glossier The 3-Step Skincare Routine

Make their life easier with this three-step skincare routine. Complete with the brand's bestselling cleanser, moisturizer, and lip balm, this Glossier kit is designed to cleanse, moisturize, and protect their skin. After a long day in a classroom, this hero set will ensure their skin is refreshed, moisturized, and glowing.

Carhartt Deluxe Dual-Compartment Insulated Lunch Cooler Bag

Did someone say lunch? This sleek insulated cooler bag will keep teachers' meals fresh and delicious all day long. It has separate compartments for food and drinks, as well as insulated walls that will keep their lunch cool. And, with a sturdy handle and adjustable strap, this cute bag is easy to carry on the go.

The Nori Press

Getting ready will be a breeze when they have this Nori Press. This small, handheld iron and steamer will ensure their clothes are ready to wear in no time. They'll be able to quickly iron both sides of their garments at the same time, efficiently smoothing out wrinkles in minutes. Plus, it has six different heat fabric settings, so they can customize the press to meet their needs.

Wooden Alarm Clock with Qi Wireless Charging Pad

Step up their desk game with this cool clock. This multifunctional device is a clock, charger, and temperature display all in one. It shows the time, works as an alarm clock, and can charge two phones at once (it works with both Android and Apple devices). It also displays the temperature and looks super chic on any desk.

Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

Help relieve their stress and built-up muscle tension with this neck and back massager. This lightweight, portable device offers three different modes, allowing them to get as deep of a massage as they please. Plus, it has an infrared advanced soothing heat function that works to improve blood circulation. Not to mention, it's ultra relaxing.

By Marilyn La Jeunesse

By Iman Balagam

How to buy gifts for your children’s teachers

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While no teacher expects gifts from their students, a gift is a small way to let your children’s teachers know how much you appreciate them, especially during these unprecedented times. Not only has the pandemic been an adjustment for children and parents, but also for teachers, who have had to be flexible and adapt to new styles of teaching.

Finding the perfect gift for your child’s teacher can be challenging without knowing their hobbies, things they dislike or if they have any dietary restrictions. If you need a little guidance, here’s everything you need to know about buying gifts for your children’s teachers, including some gift ideas they’re sure to love.

Considerations when buying gifts for your children’s teachers

Here are a few things to think about when buying teacher gifts.

When can I give my children’s teachers a gift?

While you don’t need a special occasion to give your child’s teacher a gift, here are a few times throughout the year when you can show your appreciation.

Holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas and Valentine’s Day are popular times of the year to give your children’s teachers a gift.

End of the school year: Since your child has spent a whole year with their teacher, this is an ideal time for gifts such as a scrapbook, homemade drawing or letter.

Teacher Appreciation Week: The first full week of May every year is known as Teacher Appreciation Week, so feel free to let your child’s teacher know how much you appreciate them.

Special events: If your children’s teachers happen to share special events like their birthday or getting married, your child might like to give something to congratulate them.

Teacher gift dos and don’ts

Every teacher is different. However, here are some tips to keep in mind when getting your child’s teacher a gift.

Do give handmade gifts. This is a way to ensure your idea is unique and thoughtful.

Don’t give classroom supplies unless your child’s teacher specifically asks for them.

Do bring food and other treats, as long as you know what your child’s teacher likes.

Don’t give scented gifts like lotions and candles to your child’s teacher unless you know their favorite scents.

Do keep the gifts affordable. Your child’s school might have a cap on the amount of gifts the teacher can receive.

Best gifts for your children’s teachers

Virtual teacher gifts

Chocolate: available at 1-800-Flowers

Giving gifts to your children’s teachers is difficult if you never see them. Sending chocolate is a great way to show your appreciation virtually. Plus, there are so many varieties that you can be sure to find something they’ll love.

XP-Pen G430S Ultrathin Graphic Tablet: available at Amazon

It’s challenging to teach virtually when you can’t provide demonstrations or drawings on the whiteboard. With this graphic tablet, teachers can show mathematical equations, draw graphs or fill in the blank sentences. It’s an ideal gift for any remote teacher.

Flowers: available at 1-800-Flowers

Teachers who are working remotely miss being with students as much as they miss being with their friends and teachers. Add a little color to their home office with a flower delivery. You can choose from a variety of sizes and flowers.

Charging Station for Multiple Devices: available at Amazon

The advancement of technology has made virtual learning much more accessible. You can join a Zoom class from your phone, read a textbook on your kindle e-reader or write a paper on your iPad. This five-port charging station can accommodate multiple devices so your children’s teachers will always be ready for their next class.

Edible teacher gifts

Flavored Coffee Pods Variety Pack: available at Amazon

Coffee is loved by teachers all around the world. If you know your child’s teacher is a coffee enthusiast, gift them with this variety pack from Crazy Cups. It includes 30 different flavors of coffee so they can try a new flavor every day for a month.

Taylors of Harrogate Assorted Specialty Teas Box: available at Amazon

If your children’s teachers prefer tea, this specialty box of teas is an ideal gift to show your thanks. It includes 48 individual tea bags of six different flavors. They can make tea at home or in the classroom.

CraveBox Snack Food Care Package: available at Amazon

Whether your child’s teacher likes salty or sweet, this care package has it covered. Teachers often only have a few minutes to eat some food before the next class, so having a variety of snacks to choose from at any time of the day is helpful.

Useful teacher gifts

Rainbow Teacher Lanyard: available at Etsy

Help your child’s teacher ditch the standard school lanyard by giving them this lanyard with a personalized maple wood name disk. It’s made with silicone beads, micro paracord and metal hardware, and features a plastic breakaway safety clasp. Teachers can use it for keys or an ID card.

EcoRight Canvas Tote Bag: available at Amazon

A tote bag will help teachers transport all the papers and books they need to bring home every day. This EcoRight tote bag has 15 design options to choose from and is 100% biodegradable and environmentally friendly. They’re also machine washable and won’t shrink.

Personalized Classroom Teacher Stamp: available at Etsy

Teachers have a ton of writing to do every single day. Make their job a little easier by giving them a personalized classroom stamp. Choose from several options, including a “property of” stamp, a “to-do list” stamp or a “good job” stamp for assignments. In addition, you can choose from seven self-inking colors, so they never have to worry about where their ink pad is.

Self-care teacher gifts

Waffle Textured Soft Fleece Blanket: available at Amazon

Whether they’re working remotely from home or in the classroom, your child’s teacher will get a ton of use out of this soft, textured fleece blanket. With dimensions of 50?x70?, it’s larger than other throw blankets, so there’s no need to choose between keeping shoulders or feet warm.

Neck and Back Massager with Heat: available at Amazon

Sitting at a desk all day and guiding young minds are tasks bound to leave teachers with neck pain and backaches. This convenient massager is portable and can be used at home or in the classroom. It also has heat to improve blood circulation.

Personal teacher gifts

DIY Wood Slices Christmas Ornaments: available at Amazon

Personal gifts are an excellent way for the teacher to remember your child for years to come. Kids will love contributing to their teacher’s gift and showing their appreciation. These wood slices come pre-drilled with a hole and can be used as a Christmas tree ornament or a personalized gift tag.

Personalized Name Pencils: available at Etsy

In a classroom full of pencils, teachers are bound to lose a few. With these personalized name pencils, your child’s teacher can keep track of their pencils at all times. They’re stamped in gold and come in a variety of color choices.

Fill-in-the-Blank Gift Journal: available at Amazon

This journal is a great way for your children to tell their teacher why they’re the best teacher ever. They get to fill in some blanks, including what they love most about their classroom.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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30+ gifts teachers *actually* want (because who needs another mug?)

Let's celebrate the people who have spent the whole year educating your little ones.

By Sara Goldstein and Courtney Thompson Updated April 6, 2023

We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy.

Here’s a fact: Being a teacher is NOT an easy job—especially not the past couple years. The days are long and the little personalities are strong, and yet these kind and patient professionals make magic happen every single day. I mean, now that we’ve all had the experience of homeschooling for at least a hot minute it’s even more impressive that they teach, care for and inspire students and manage to do it with a smile. (And not end each day looking like they just got shot out of a cannon. Speaking from experience here.)

Related: 5 ways parents can partner with teachers throughout the school year

Because of that, it’s only appropriate that we show them our utmost appreciation. And because we know these hardworking profs have more than their share of mugs and artwork from your special humans, we’ve curated a list of thoughtful teacher appreciation gifts that we know they would be completely touched (and grateful!) to receive. We also know that “buy teacher gifts” is one more potentially stressful thing to add to your to-do list.

We’re here to help! Below we give you the best outside-the-box gifts for teachers in you and your child’s life, ranging from pampering sleeping masks to pretty artwork, personalized tote bags to Starbucks gift cards. You know, items they actually want and will actually use. (And can teachers get a raise while we’re at it?)

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out all of our  holiday gift guides !

Here are the best teacher gifts to consider

A Pop-Up Card

Nothing is better than a heartfelt card—except perhaps a card that doubles as decor!

A quirky notepad

They’ll never forget a great idea with this fun notepad perched on their desk! Cleverly disguised as a school-lunch milk carton, this 500 sheet notepad and pencil “straw” doubles as desk decor.

Scholastic eGift Card

Many teachers spend their hard-earned money on classroom resources year after year. An awesome way to help offset those costs and show appreciation is with a Scholastic eGift card. Through the Scholastic Teacher Store they can purchase everything from books to classroom charts that will be enjoyed by students for years to come. Choose any amount or pull in other parents to contribute!

Field Notes

Signs of spring notebooks.

Every teacher needs a place to jot things down–and the stylish Field Notes notebooks are a personal favorite. There are always a ton of fun collections to choose from, but the limited edition “Signs of Spring” collection feels like the cheery optimism every teacher has at the end of the school year. Each of the three pocket-sized notebooks features a debossed cover with patterns based on three flowers that are among the very first to appear in the Spring each year across the U.S.—the Ghost Flower in the Southwest, Quaker Ladies in the East, and Contra Costa Goldfields in the San Francisco Bay area.

An extra special journal

With its colorful Liberty London landscape artwork and beautiful gilded embroidery, this handmade journal is almost too pretty to use.

Only healthcare professionals scrub up more than teachers. Give their parched hands a little pampering with our favorite splurgey hand cream–Aesop’s Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm. It really helps nourish skin but it’s the bright citrusy and earthy scent that has us totally hooked.

Mind & Body Reset

Whether they’ve got a regular meditation practice or simply need a between class pick-me-up, this portable trio of essential oil roll ons can make the most of those moments. And to make it even more giftable, high-quality blends (Energy, Cleanse, Reflection) come packaged in a stylish case to keep them safe and organized.

Virtual Fitness Classes

Know your kiddos’ teacher is a fitness nut? Then they’ll totally love getting access to Classpass’ online lineup of yoga, pilates, spinning, kickboxing, meditation and more. Prices range from $19 to $99 for a one-month subscription.

If they’d rather rest and reset, the extra cozy neck wraps from Warmies are just the thing. Just pop them in the microwave or the freezer, place on your neck and bask in the lavender-scented calm.

Personalized Pencils

Add their name or thoughtful words of encouragement to these personalized pencils. They come in tons of colors and can be customized with up to 23 characters.

A Desktop Game

Part game, part calendar, teachers and students alike will get a kick out of starting the day with a challenge. Try to match each stainless steel ball with the correct month, day and date and revel in some good old fashioned analog fun.

Personalized Tech Case

Help keep their essentials organized with a classy a monogrammed leather tech case from Cuyana. It always comes in handy and never goes out of style.

A Curated Box of Goodies

Not sure  what to get? Let Knack do the work for you! The woman-owned gifting platform makes it super easy to send some appreciation their way with customizable gift sets that fit any personality. What’s more, you can shop by ethos, choosing sustainable, BIPOC-owned , or even handmade products. But the icing on the cake? Each gift includes a beautiful, custom-printed card and/or video message you can personalize. Prices start at $33.

Guided Journal

Give the gift of self-reflection. The guided monthly Human Being Journal is designed to help even the busiest people connect with their deeper sense of being—without being just one more chore on the to-do list.

Customized Stationery

Everyone on the planet appreciates custom stationery and this line from Etsy vendor CurioPress is simple and sweet all at once.

A Luxe (and Flattering!) Candle

While we acknowledge that a candle isn’t the most original teacher gift, we can guarantee this will be their favorite one to date. Not only does the message make them feel extra special, but the luxe scents are totally dreamy. (And if your relationship is a little cheekier you could always opt for other messages like  Wine O’Clock or this one, which is perfect for really any time during the school year: Wake Me Up When This Is Over .)

Personalized Tote

Teachers have to carry SO many binders, books, papers and more to and from their car daily, so give them a fun (and thoughtful!) tote to transport it all. We love the durable Snap Totes from Minted which come in a ton of gorgeous prints designed by independent artists. Personalize it with a foil pressed Italian leather tag to make it even more special!

Whether they opt to hang it in their classroom or their home, this artwork will surely brighten every day for your child’s teacher. Painted by California-based artist Erin M. Wheeler, her whimsical artwork uses painted and found papers to create works inspired by forms found in nature. Best of all, it’s all framed and ready to go! Prices start at $49.

Encourage them to fit in a much-needed relaxation session after a long day of trying to tame your kiddos. The raved about Hemp CBD and epsom salt bath gem from Prima are an extra-special treat for mind and muscles.

Back to bath time! If they’re more of a bath salts and less of a fizzy bath bomb type, these calming salts from Herbivore are ideal. The scent is gorg and so is the packaging!

Coffee Sampler

The only people on the planet who might need a daily dose of coffee  more than moms is teachers! Sign them up for a one-time or subscription delivery of the finest, most delicious brews from Bean Box. The super curated Coffee Sampler box includes four artfully crafted artisan blends from award-winning roasters. Prices start at $24

At Home Lattes

Alternatively, for the latte lovers! Copper Cow Coffee brings barista-level treats right to their desk drawer with their innovative pour-overs. On a mission to sustainably support and share the vibrant heritage of Vietnamese coffee, Copper Cow’s sampler set includes the best-selling flavors along with individual sweetened condensed milk creamer that creates the perfect drink every time.

A Handy Safety Kit

Lots of teachers have stored away their masks by now, but not all—especially during cold and flu season . That’s why this is still very much a practical and suitable gift for teachers who live in germ-infested petri dishes all week long. The handy sealable silicone case protects masks while they’re stored in pockets and bags and comes with a matching refillable silicone bottle for their favorite hand sanitizer.

Literary (and Philanthropic!) Socks

Everyone can use a pair of cozy socks! Not only will these keep their feet warm—they’ll also warm their heart knowing that each sale helps fund literacy programs and book donations to communities in need.

A Potted Plant

A little greenery is always a welcome gift. And even better when it’s incredibly easy to care for! This climbing mini monstera grows like a weed, even for questionable plant parents. And the fact it’s all potted and ready for gifting? No brainer.

Fun Desk Accessories

There’s no reason necessities have to look boring! We love this gilded tape dispenser that makes their desktop a little more stylish.

Spafinder Gift Card

Contribute to their next manicure, pedicure, facial or massage by giving your teacher a Spafinder gift card which can be redeemed at thousands of local spas all over the country. (Starting at $25)

A Pretty Desk Pad

School desks aren’t known for their beauty, so they’re sure to love something pretty to perch on top. Rifle Paper Co. always knocks it out of the park with beautiful designs that brighten up the day.

Starbucks Gift Cards

Here’s a fact: You can never go wrong with a Starbucks gift card. Given that they’re pretty much on every street corner in America, we’re confident your teacher will find a time to use it. This four-pack means you can also dole out thank-yous to crossing guards and the school librarian, too. Buy a bundle to save!

A Silk Eye Mask

A little bit of bougie pampering goes a long way. The washable silk eye masks from Lunya are the perfect intersection of practical and thoughtful. (Or check out some of our other favorite sleeping masks !)

32 oz Glass Water Bottle

Okay, yeah, your kids’ teachers probably have plenty of mugs, but do they have enough water bottles? Can you ever have enough? Teachers need to drink water all day long, and a cute tumbler like this one with a time marker and silicone sleeve will help them stay hydrated so they can power through their very long days.

Cratejoy Subscription

We all know that teachers in every state use their own funds to buy classroom supplies. It’s a reality no one likes, but a reality nonetheless. So one of the best thing we can do to support teachers is to help them financially by gifting them a subscription to a service like Cratejoy. This bundle for kindergarteners comes with classroom supplies like books and activities along with a teacher gift. And check out Cratejoy for boxes for other grade levels as well!

A version of this post was published June 3, 2021. It has been updated.

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End-of-Year Teacher Gifts That Make the Grade

Believe it or not, school is almost out for the summer! As you’re packing your kid’s backpack for the last day, don’t forget to include something special for their teacher—it’s time to say thanks for all their guidance and support. Drawing a blank when it comes to teacher gift ideas for the end of the school year? We’re here to make shopping as easy as 1-2-3. Below, find a comprehensive list of end-of-year teacher gifts that’ll definitely earn an A+ when it comes to thoughtful presents.

Personalized Teacher Gifts

Go the extra mile with a customized present. These personalized teacher gifts are cute and creative.

Pink Apple Parties Personalized Teacher Notepad

Upgrade teacher’s desk with this adorable custom stationery, which reads “a note from [teacher’s name].”

Buy it: $9, Etsy.com

Shutterfly Teacher Apple Mason Jar

This cute cup can be customized with the name of your child’s teacher and school.

Buy it: $20, Shutterfly.com

Oscar & Emma Appreciation Notebook

Personalize this pretty notebook with whatever colors and text you like. We love the idea of putting the teacher’s room number on the pencils printed on the cover!

Buy it: $16, Minted.com

Knock Knock ‘Why You’re the Best Teacher Ever’ Fill in the Love Journal

Expressing gratitude isn’t always easy. That’s why this personalizable book comes in clutch. The prompts will help your child think of just the right words.

Buy it: $11, Amazon.com

Shutterfly Photo Book

Surprise your kid’s teacher with a sweet photo book filled with snapshots of the class. This is a great personalized teacher gift to collaborate on with other parents.

Buy it: Starting from $16, Shutterfly.com

DIY Teacher Gifts

Want to make something yourselves? Check out these end-of-year teacher gift ideas that are a little more DIY.

Little Legel Designs ‘You’re the Balm’ Apple Custom Teacher Gift

Download and print out this punny card, which is a play on the phrase “you’re the bomb,” then attach the round lip balm of your choice.

Buy it: Starting from $5, Etsy.com

Gosh So Posh ‘You Are the Key to Our Children’s Success’ Key Fob Gift

Pair a store-bought keyring with this printable gift tag for a special touch. The card reads, “you’re the key to our children’s success!”

Buy it: $7, Etsy.com

The Paper Dolls Shop ‘Thanks for Helping Me Grow’ Flower Pot Tag

Raising a little gardener? Have your kid pot a plant (bonus points if they hand-paint the vessel!), then stick this sparkly “thanks for helping me grow” sign in the soil.

Buy it: $8, Etsy.com

Laurel Street Design ‘To a Re-MARK-able Teacher’ Printable

Put together a teacher gift basket filled with new markers (be they whiteboard pens or grading utensils). Then, stick on this adorable note that says, “to a re-mark-able teacher.”

Buy it: $5, Etsy.com

Paper & Taigh One Smart Cookie Teacher Tag

Print this “I’m one smart cookie because of you” gift tag and tie it to a box of homemade—you guessed it—cookies that your child helped bake.

Buy it: $6, Etsy.com

Unique Teacher Gifts

We think all the end-of-year teacher gifts on this list are unique. That being said, the following presents are extra-original.

The Knot Shop Glass Tea Infuser Travel Cup in Periodic Table Teacher Printing

Here’s a genius present for the tea -cher in your life: an infuser bottle decorated with their name in periodic table letters. Pair it with some loose leaves for a gift they’ll love to sip from.

Buy it: $23, TheKnotShop.com

Sheila Kitts Paperie Personalized Teacher Stickers

These custom school stickers may just top the list of unique gifts for teachers. They come personalized with the educator’s name and an illustrated portrait of them!

Buy it: Starting from $22, Etsy.com

Pink Pueblo 2 Personalized Teacher Rubber Stamp

Or, try this awesome custom stamp that prints cartoon pictures of your teacher along with the phrase “[teacher’s name] says great job!”

Buy it: $27, Etsy.com

Stampmojis Teacher Stamps

Can you tell we think fun stamps are some of the best end-of-year teacher gifts? This set will let them ink papers with teacher-themed emojis.

Buy it: $14, Amazon.com

Ban.do Get it Together Desk Buddies Stapler

There’s nothing like splashy desk accessories to brighten up their teaching days. They won’t want to wait until next school year when they see this silly googly-eyed stapler.

Buy it: $16, Amazon.com

Funny Teacher Gifts

Does your kid’s teacher have a great sense of humor? Try one of these funny teacher gifts bound to get some laughs.

Anya Handmade Jewelry Teacher Keychain

This hilarious keychain is engraved with, “I teach toddlers. You can’t scare me.” But honestly, something similar would work for any grade—all ages can be tough to teach!

Buy it: $14, Etsy.com

K.C.’s Creation Station ‘After School Snack’ Wine Glass

How about a teacher gift they can toast to the end of the year with?

Buy it: $11, Etsy.com

Funny Things My Students Say by Sweet Harmony Press

There’s no doubt your child’s teacher has heard some crazy stuff from their students. Help them preserve the giggle-inducing memories with this fill-in journal.

Buy it: $6, Amazon.com

F in Exams: The Very Best Totally Wrong Test Answers by Richard Benson

In a similar vein, this funny teacher gift is full of wrong but hysterical test answers from real students.

Buy it: $7 for a paperback, Amazon.com

Custom Gifts ‘If You Read This, This Teacher Is Off Duty’ Socks

They’ll get a kick out of these “off duty” socks whenever they kick up their feet this summer.

Buy it: $17, Amazon.com

Cheap Teacher Gifts

You don’t have to spend big to say thanks, which is why we’ve kept this list affordable. On the hunt for even more cheap teacher gifts? The end-of-year teacher gift ideas below all cost $10 or less.

World Market Gold Metallic Monogram Mug

Their school morning coffee will taste even better coming from this personalized mug.

Buy it: $8, WorldMarket.com

How Teachers Swear! An Adult Coloring Book

The funny end-of-year teacher gifts aren’t over yet! This silly teacher coloring book will keep them busy over summer break.

Buy it: $7, Amazon.com

HarLex Personalized Leather Bookmark

Neither are the personalized teacher gifts. Customize this stylish bookmark with their name or a learning-themed quote.

The Posh Shop ‘Please Return to Teacher’ Pencil Set

Solve the problem of a constant pencil shortage with these personalized scribblers. Now students will remember to borrow—not steal.

Buy it: $10, Etsy.com

Sugarfina Fuji Apple Caramels

These candies are a sophisticated (and far more appreciated) alternative to the traditional apple teacher gift.

Buy it: $8, Sugarfina.com Published April 2019

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39 Good Christmas Gifts Teachers Actually Want This Year

By Grace Healy

Teaching is one of the most rewarding careers in the world – helping to mold new generations and watching them grow must fill teachers with a wonderful feeling! Reward them for their dedication with something from this awesome list of gifts that are all perfect for educators. Follow the link and see what inspires you.

Educational Insights No Yell Bell Classroom Attention Getter

Teachers must suffer from sore throats a lot, right? It must be difficult to be heard over the voices of excited children. If there is a teacher in your life, help them impart wisdom without straining their voice thanks to this cool no yell bell from Educational Insights. It’s high quality and comes with 7 sound effects.

How Teachers Swear! An Adult Coloring Book

Teachers are only human, and can get stressed and mad just the same as anyone else! This adult coloring book is the perfect companion for the teacher in your life that would love to have a laugh and de-stress. Alternative swear words have never been so funny!

Personalized Teacher Coffee Mug

Education is a great gift. If there is a teacher in your life that does everything they can to teach and help, they may be deserving of a gift of their own. Design a lookalike of said teacher and have it printed onto this brilliant and fully personalized mug to make them happier than ever.

Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes

Comprehension questions are a remarkable way to help children to pay attention to different forms of literature and begin to pick out key pieces of information. If you would like to make comprehension even more fun, pick up these brilliant dice that will randomize questions and spark conversation.

The Original Carpet Markers

Whether you are designating an area for sitting, standing or forming a queue, Carpet Markers are the simplest and most convenient way to do so. With 30 in a pack, these colorful hook and loop circles attach to most types of carpet, are easily cleaned, and are an awesome teaching aid.

Clipboard Dry Erase Surface

With a clip attached to each one, these brilliantly inventive dry erase white boards are perfectly suited to the classroom. Pick up this bulk collection of 30 boards – boasting rounded corners and a retractable hanging loop – for the education-giver in your life and watch how valuable they become.

Teachers Inspire Necklace

Those that use their lives to improve the skills and knowledge of others are special. If there is a tutor in your life that deserves to feel appreciated, consider picking them up one of these simple, yet special necklaces. With the words ‘Teachers Inspire’, they will keep it forever.

Educational Insights Fluorescent Light Filters

Overhead lights can really change the tone of an educational setting. If there is someone in your life that works in a classroom, help them to bring a calming and relaxing touch to the environment by gifting them some of these useful classroom light filters that easily attach to fluorescent lights.

AmazonBasics Thermal Laminator

Want to find a way to make worksheets and documents last a lot longer? There is one way…a laminator. With this brilliant thermal machine, the tutor that you know and love will be able to keep their papers rigid, clean and tear free…brilliant!

Who Is The Lucky Duck? Student Management System

How simple yet ingenious is this? ‘Who is the lucky duck?’ is the brilliant way for tutors all around the world to cleverly ensure that all students are ready to answer questions, without them realizing they will only be called upon once. The sturdy sticks can be written on and look truly great.

Diy Crayon Wreath

If you know someone that teaches for a living, show them this! Extremely fun to make, this cool project involves using crayons to make a colorful and extremely exciting wreath that can be hung for everyone to enjoy; perfect for just about every classroom in the world.

Diy Personalized Clipboard

Clipboards are an essential took in so many professions, so if you are looking for a DIY gift idea to give to the instructor or market-researcher you know, take a look at this tutorial. Using an ordinary clipboard as a base, you can jazz it up using glitter, gold leaf, and paints for a truly personalized finish.

Diy Gold Pencil Holder Anthro Knock Off

Making budget, DIY versions of expensive store bought products is a brilliant way to give gifts. Save yourself some money with this awesome article that will teach you exactly how to create this cool gold pencil holder that is simple and exciting to make! It will look wonderful on anyone’s desk.

I'm a Teacher Superpower Mug

This enormous deep black mug is ready and able to hold up to 18oz of tea, coffee, or even soup! With the words ‘I’m a teacher. What’s your superpower?’ it will definitely be the envy of the staff room, and will keep them going through those long lessons during last period on a Friday afternoon.

Apple Byte Desktop Sculpture

Since the unfortunate and sad ending of the life of Alan Turing, the apple has been a symbol associated with both computers and, of course, education in general. This brilliant sculpture would look awesome atop the desk of any educator, from teaching assistants to professors.

I Put The Lit In Litterature Mug

Ceramic in construction and able to hold up to 11 ounces of tea or coffee, this exciting mug is ideal for the English language lover in your life. William Shakespeare is one of the legends of literature and that is why this hilarious mug with his face on will go down so well as a gift.

Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens

Writing is a great way to express oneself. If you would love to find a way to add a touch of personality to your handwriting, invest in a pack of these Paper Mate Flair felt tip pens. With a wide range of 12 bright and bold colors, these high quality pens are essential for educators everywhere.

Dry Erase Pockets

Schools, universities and colleges do a lot of printing. Worksheets are used, written on and then tossed in the trash. Save the environment and your resources by using these dry erase pockets that allow worksheets to be drawn all over, and then reused whenever! There are 30 included, and they don’t cost the earth!

Teacher Life: A Snarky Chalkboard Coloring Book

Teaching is not an easy profession, not by a long shot! If you have a teacher in your life, then you must be aware of the pitfalls. Treat them to one of these funny adult coloring books that will make it a little easier to get up in the morning and go to work.

Best Teacher Ever Makeup or Pencil Bag

Whether they use it as a makeup bag, travel bag or even pencil case, this 100% cotton canvas bag is an ideal gift for any and every educator. With the words ‘best teacher ever’ printed onto the bag alongside decorative flowers, it is both useful and looks great.

Wampumtuk Student Tears Mug

Does your teacher have a brilliant sense of humor? If they are easy to relate to and awesome at teaching, grab them one of these cool mugs that hold a whopping 11 ounces of coffee or tea. With the words ‘student tears (still warm)’ printed onto the ceramic, students and other teachers alike will find it funny.

Dry Erase Lapboards

The value of dry erase whiteboards has been recognized by school workers all over the world. If you are searching for something that you can buy the academic mentor in your life, take a look at these. With 25 dry erase boards in their arsenal, they will be able to teach like never before.

Rory's Story Cubes

It’s not easy to conjure up ideas and imagination from nowhere at all. If you know someone that could benefit from some story inspiration, invest in Rory’s Story Cubes and watch as their creativity blossoms. Perfect in a classroom setting or even as an icebreaking activity, these cubes are awesome.

Teachers Are The Root Of Our Knowledge Necklace

Is there a tutor or role model in your life that has helped you to learn something new? Show them how much you appreciate their patience and dedication by gifting them one of these beautiful pendants. Stunning to look at, it reads ‘Teachers are the roots of our tree of knowledge’.

Learning Resources Magnetic Notebook Paper

Not only is this brilliant notebook paper magnetic, but it also benefits from the characteristics of a dry wipe board, allowing it be reused over and over again! Ideal in a classroom setting, this larger than life lined paper looks just like the paper used in school books, helping children to relate.

Solar System Mismatched Earrings

Wow, how amazing is this? If you are searching for something that you can get for your favorite educator, this could definitely be it! Extremely unique, these mismatched earrings showcase the beautiful planets and sun that make up our solar system in an exciting way; unlike anything else you have seen.

Learning Resources Answer Buzzers

Want to make learning fun? Pick up a set of these. Developed by Learning Resources, these response buzzers make answering questions a whole lot more fun as they bring a game show element to the classroom. With different colors and different sounds, each one is easily recognizable from the others.

Teach Jumbo Tote

Is there someone that you know and love that is proud of their profession as a teacher? So they should be. If you are trying to find a gift to buy them, consider this delightful tote bag. Not only is the bag itself useful, it also features an inspiring quote surrounding the world of teaching.

Learning Resources Student Grouping Pencils

Sometimes, grouping is a useful concept in the world of teaching. If you are aware of a tutor that could do with an easy way of grouping their class, these ingenious pencils are the way. With different colors, shapes and even numbers, these pencils give them a variety of ways to assemble their students.

Soft Glow Silent Timer & Light

Timers have a lot of uses, but sometimes their volume can cause problems in a quiet and peaceful setting. The answer? This awe inspiring soft glow silent timer and light. Suitable as both a fully functioning night light (with multiple colors) and a stress free timer, it will make someone’s life a lot easier.

Punch Card Incentive Loyalty Reward Cards

Trying to find a way in which the teacher in your life can easily reward and encourage their students? Try these punch cards. Working on a point system, these brilliant cards operate just like store loyalty cards and will ensure that children are punctual, polite, and do all of their homework!

Schools Out! Mismatched Earrings

Does the tutor friend that you know and love absolutely adore their job? It’s a great profession. Help them accessorize with their place of education in mind thanks to this brilliant mismatched school themed earrings. With one featuring a notebook and one a pencil, they will definitely become a conversation starter.

Westcott School Scissor Caddy with Pointed Kids Scissors

Scissors, what a great invention! In a school setting, scissors are brilliantly useful. Keep them organized and safe with this cool and colorful caddy. Designed with anti microbial protection, it can help stop the spread of germs and even comes supplied with 24 pairs of scissors.

Gaiam Kids Balance Ball Chair

Trying to think of a new way to help children to concentrate and remain focused? This balance ball chair has been shown to keep the mind itself focused whilst the body works hard to remain still and upright. A unique approach to education that any tutor should consider.

Felt Letter Board

Felt letter boards are so cool. If you have been on the lookout for something special to give to your favorite educator, this could be the perfect match. Ideal in classrooms, felt letter boards can be used to bring a new, fun and exciting way of learning into the environment.

Woodstock Solo Silver Zenergy Chime

Tired of the old, institutional sounding school bell? You are not alone. If you would like to find a brand new way to announce the beginning and the end of classes and activities, this is it. This hand held chime is beautiful to look at and emits a wonderful, strong sound that will definitely get some attention.

Vintage Composition Notebook Necktie

Does the teacher in your life like to wear ties to class? Send them into school with a new and exciting tie that they will love. Designed to look just like a vintage composition notebook, this fun tie is stain resistant in design and simply looks great!

Quan Jewelry Teacher's Tree of Life Necklace

Are you appreciative of the instructor that takes the time to help you in life? Treat them to one of these wonderful tree of life necklaces that comes with a heart-warming thankyou card! The pendant has been handcrafted from pure pewter and will be enjoyed for years to come.

Teachers Save Lives Mug

The English language is not that easy to understand; the simple misplacing of a comma can entirely change the meaning of a sentence. If you are searching for a new and exciting gift for your English professor, this hilarious mug is a definite winner that they will love.

Time Timer Original Visual Timer

With an audible alert, this otherwise silent timer is ideal for a classroom setting. If gift shopping for tutors is on your to-do list, this 12 inch, 60 minute countdown clock would certainly make their day to day life a whole lot easier. A great way to ensure their students stay on task and on time.

Galileo Globe Thermometer

Thermometers are cool, and useful; however, if you are looking for the coolest thermometer around, this could be it. Galileo discovered many awesome things during his life, it was one of his findings that led to this thermometer being possible. Watch as the different weighted glass bulbs rise and drop with the change in temperature.

Teacher Created Resources Chalkboard Brights Privacy Screen

Whether students are being tested, or need a little bit of space to themselves, this privacy screen is the way to keep them isolated. Foldable and colorful, it will look great when it is up and will neatly and conveniently fold away when it is no longer needed.

(Also read: 39 Teacher Birthday Gifts and Goodbye Gift Ideas )

Other Gift Ideas

24 Thoughtful Personalized Gifts for Awesome Teachers

This list will help you find the perfect match for the special teacher in your life, whether they’re looking out for your kid or they’re just a close friend or family member.

26 Thoughtful Gifts for Coaches

Gone are the days when coaches stood on the sidelines in suits and ties like Tom Landry and Vince Lombardi. Now they look just like you and me. Think Bill Belichick in his hoodie. But they still need the tools of the trade, just like the old days. This list of gifts for coaches has […]

26 Meaningful Teacher Retirement Gifts They’ll Actually Use

So your favorite teacher is retiring and you’re looking for a meaningful gift which they’ll actually use? Peruse this list for dozens of fabulous gift ideas including jewelry, clothing, and even items for the home which will make them smile (and maybe tear up a little) as they enjoy their new found freedom.

39 Teacher Birthday Gifts and Goodbye Gift Ideas

Buying gifts for teachers can be a tough call. Some teachers want gifts for the classroom and some don’t. Some like a glass of wine; some don’t. One thing we do know: almost to a one, they have plenty of coffee mugs. This gift list for teachers has a good mix of everything—except mugs.

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37+ Unique Teacher Appreciation Gifts To Order In Bulk

Having trouble finding a good gift for your teacher? Discover 37+ memorable and unique bulk gift ideas for your teacher, and get remarkable deals for them with Giftpack.

Sep 15th 2023 • 17 min read

Hey there, folks! Are you on the lookout for the perfect way to show your appreciation to the teachers in your life? Well, look no further because I've got something that will knock your socks off! Picture this: teacher appreciation gifts in bulk. Yes, you read that right - bulk!

Now, I know what you're thinking. Bulk might not sound like the most exciting word, but trust me, when it comes to teacher appreciation, it can be a total game-changer.

Imagine being able to shower all the amazing teachers in your life with thoughtful gifts without breaking the bank. That's right, folks - by buying teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, you can save some serious dough while still spreading the love. And let me tell you, the options are endless. From personalized mugs and tote bags to custom stationery and classroom decorations, there's something for every teacher out there.

What Is A Teacher Appreciation Gift?

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of our society. They dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to educate and inspire young minds. As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week , or any occasion, it’s the perfect opportunity for us to express our gratitude for their unwavering commitment. One of the best ways to do this is by giving them a thoughtful and meaningful gift.

A teacher appreciation gift is a token of appreciation that is given to educators to express gratitude for their hard work and dedication. It is a way to acknowledge the significant impact they have on the lives of their students and the community as a whole. These gifts can range from simple and heartfelt gestures to more elaborate and extravagant presents.

When it comes to teacher appreciation gifts, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, if you are looking to show your gratitude on a larger scale, consider purchasing teacher appreciation gifts in bulk. Not only does this allow you to express your appreciation to multiple educators, but it also offers several benefits for both you and the recipients.

By buying teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, you can save both time and money. Instead of individually selecting and purchasing gifts for each teacher, buying in bulk allows you to streamline the process. You can select a single gift option that you know will be appreciated by all educators and order it in larger quantities. This not only reduces the time spent on gift selection but also allows you to take advantage of bulk discounts or special pricing, resulting in significant cost savings.

Another advantage of buying teacher appreciation gifts in bulk is the opportunity to create a sense of unity and camaraderie among the teaching staff. When all teachers receive the same gift, it reinforces the idea that they are part of a team working towards a common goal. It fosters a sense of solidarity and appreciation among the educators, enhancing the overall morale and collaboration within the school community.

When choosing teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, it’s important to consider options that are practical, meaningful, and reflective of the teaching profession. Some popular choices include personalized stationery sets, engraved pens, custom coffee mugs, or inspirational books. These gifts not only showcase your appreciation but also provide practical use for the teachers in their day-to-day work .

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How Do I Send Teacher Appreciation Gifts in Bulk?

Teacher appreciation gifts are a wonderful way to show gratitude and recognition to the educators who work tirelessly to shape the minds of our future generations. Whether you are a school administrator, a parent, or a group of students, sending these gifts in bulk can be a great option. In this blog post, we will discuss how to send teacher appreciation gifts in bulk and introduce you to Giftpack, a company that can make the process easier for you.

When sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, it is important to consider a few key factors. First, you need to think about the type of gift you want to send. It should be something thoughtful and meaningful, yet practical for a teacher to use or enjoy. This could include personalized items like engraved pens or custom-made mugs, or practical items like office supplies or classroom decorations.

Next, you need to determine the quantity of gifts you want to send. This will depend on the number of teachers you want to appreciate and the budget you have allocated for this purpose. Once you have determined the quantity, it's time to find a reliable supplier who can fulfill your order in bulk.

This is where Giftpack comes in. Giftpack is a platform that specializes in helping individuals and organizations find unique appreciation gifts in bulk for teachers. We have a wide range of options available, ranging from personalized items to practical supplies, ensuring that you can find the perfect gift for each teacher.

The process of sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk through Giftpack is simple and efficient. Firstly, you can browse through our extensive catalog of gifts and choose the ones that catch your eye. We provide detailed descriptions and images of each item, making it easy for you to make an informed decision.

Once you have selected the gifts, you can specify the quantity you require and add them to your order. Giftpack also offers customization options, allowing you to add personalized messages or branding to the gifts if desired. We have a team of experts who can assist you throughout the process, ensuring that you receive high-quality gifts that meet your expectations.

After you have finalized your order, Giftpack will handle the packaging and shipping for you. We have a global shipping system in place to ensure that your gifts are delivered to each teacher in a timely manner. This saves you the hassle and time of individually packaging and labeling each gift.

Sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk not only shows your appreciation to the educators who make a difference in our lives, but it is also a cost-effective option. By ordering in bulk, you can take advantage of discounts and economies of scale, allowing you to stretch your budget further.

If you are looking for a convenient and efficient way to send teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, Giftpack is the ideal solution. Their wide range of unique gifts, customization options, and hassle-free logistics make the process seamless and enjoyable. Show your appreciation to teachers by giving them a gift that they will cherish and remember for years to come.

What Are The Benefits of Sending Teacher Appreciation Gifts?

As I mentioned earlier, teachers play a vital role in shaping our future generation, and it's crucial that we show them how much we value their hard work and dedication. One way to do this is by sending them teacher appreciation gifts in bulk. In this blog post, I will tell you all about the benefits of sending these gifts, so let's dive right in!

First off, sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk is a great way to save time and money. By purchasing in bulk, you can get a better deal and ensure that you have enough gifts to send to all the teachers who have made a positive impact in your life or your child's life. Plus, it saves you the hassle of having to individually select and purchase gifts for each teacher.

Another benefit of sending teacher appreciation gifts is that it shows your appreciation in a tangible and memorable way. Teachers work tirelessly day in and day out, and a small token of appreciation can go a long way in brightening their day. It's a way to say thank you for their hard work and dedication and to let them know that their efforts are recognized and valued.

Moreover, teacher appreciation gifts in bulk can help foster a sense of community and teamwork. When a school or organization comes together to send these gifts, it creates a sense of unity and solidarity among the staff. It shows that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal - providing the best education and support for students. This can boost morale and create a positive working environment for teachers.

In addition, sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk can also serve as a marketing opportunity. If you run a business or organization, sending these gifts can help promote your brand and build positive relationships with the local community. By attaching your brand or logo to the gift, you are not only showing your appreciation for teachers but also getting your name out there. It's a win-win situation!

Lastly, sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk is a practical way to spread joy and positivity. As we all know, teaching can be a challenging profession, and receiving a thoughtful gift can make a world of difference in a teacher's day. It can serve as a reminder that their efforts are making a positive impact and encourage them to keep pushing forward.

So, next time you're thinking about ways to show your appreciation for teachers, consider sending teacher appreciation gifts in bulk. It's a practical, cost-effective, and meaningful way to express your gratitude. Let's give our teachers the recognition they deserve!

What Gift Do Teachers Like The Most?

When it comes to showing appreciation for teachers, a heartfelt "thank you" goes a long way. But if you're looking to go the extra mile and show your gratitude with a gift, you may be wondering what teachers like the most. Well, fear not! I've got you covered.

Teachers, like all of us, appreciate thoughtful and practical gifts. So, when choosing a teacher appreciation gift in bulk, it's important to keep their needs and preferences in mind.

Here are a few ideas that are sure to make any teacher's day:

1. Personalized Stationery

Teachers are always in need of stationery supplies. A set of personalized notepads, sticky notes, or pens can be a great way to show your appreciation while also providing them with something they'll use daily.

2. Custom Tote Bags

Teachers often have a lot to carry around, from papers to books and supplies. A sturdy and stylish tote bag with their name or a motivational quote can be a practical and thoughtful gift.

3. Classroom Decor

Help teachers spruce up their classrooms with some fun and educational decorations. Wall posters, motivational banners, or even a set of colorful bins and organizers can make a big difference in creating a positive learning environment.

4. Self-Care Goodies

Teaching can be a demanding job, so why not pamper your teachers with some self-care goodies? A spa gift set, scented candles, or even a cozy blanket can help them relax and unwind after a long day in the classroom.

5. Gift Cards

If you're unsure of what exactly your teachers would like, you can never go wrong with a gift card. Consider getting them a gift card to a local bookstore, office supply store, or even a restaurant where they can enjoy a nice meal.

Remember, the key to choosing the perfect teacher appreciation gift in bulk is to think about what would make their lives easier or bring them joy. By considering their needs and preferences, you can show your appreciation in a meaningful way.

So, the next time you're looking to bulk order teacher appreciation gifts, keep these ideas in mind.

And remember, a little token of appreciation can go a long way in making a teacher feel valued and loved.

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How Much Should You Spend On A Teacher Appreciation Gift?

Teacher appreciation gifts are a great way to show gratitude to the educators who have dedicated their time and energy to shaping the minds of our future generation. Whether it's the end of the school year, Teacher Appreciation Week , or a special occasion, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. If you're looking to buy teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, you may be wondering how much you should spend.

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The amount you should spend on a teacher appreciation gift depends on a variety of factors, including your budget, the number of teachers you're buying for, and the relationship you have with the teachers.

When it comes to budgeting for teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, it's important to be realistic. Consider how much you can afford to spend without putting a strain on your finances. Remember, it's the thought that counts, so even a small, meaningful gift can go a long way in expressing your appreciation.

If you're buying gifts for multiple teachers, you may want to set a budget per teacher to ensure fairness and consistency. This can help you avoid overspending or underspending on individual gifts. Consider the average price range for teacher appreciation gifts in bulk and adjust your budget accordingly.

In addition to your budget, it's important to consider the relationship you have with the teachers. If you have a close personal relationship with a teacher, you may feel more inclined to spend a little more on their gift. On the other hand, if you have a more casual or professional relationship, a modest gift may be more appropriate.

Remember, the value of a teacher appreciation gift is not measured solely by its price tag. Teachers appreciate thoughtful gestures and heartfelt notes just as much as expensive gifts. Consider personalizing the gifts or including a handwritten note to make them even more special.

When it comes to buying teacher appreciation gifts in bulk, there is no set amount you should spend. It's important to consider your budget, the number of teachers you're buying for, and the relationship you have with the teachers.

Ultimately, it's the thought and effort you put into the gift that will be most appreciated. So, whether you're buying a small token or a more extravagant present, remember to show your gratitude in a meaningful way.

37 Unique Teacher Appreciation Gifts For Your Favorite Teachers

Finding the perfect teacher appreciation gift can be a challenge, but fear not! I've compiled a list of 37 unique teacher appreciation gift ideas that will leave a lasting impression and will make people love you.

Each item comes with a description and an idea of who to gift the item to, an explanation of why they will love the gift, its average price, and a "love percentage" to help you gauge how much your client will love you after receiving the gift! From personalized items to experiences they'll never forget, there's something here for everyone.

The list gets better as you get further into it - let's dive in!

1. Personalized Leather Notebook

• Best for: Teachers who love to jot down thoughts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: The thoughtfulness and personal touch.
• Love Percentage: 90%

2. Custom Star Map

• Best for: Astronomy enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Commemorates a special night's sky.
• Love Percentage: 85%

3. Hand-Painted Mug

• Best for: Tea or coffee lovers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Handcrafted uniqueness.
• Love Percentage: 80%
• Botanical Garden Membership
• Best for: Nature admirers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Year-round access to beauty.
• Love Percentage: 95%

5. Scented Candle Set

• Best for: Relaxation seekers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Tranquil ambiance.

6, Cooking Class Voucher

• Best for: Culinary enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Acquiring new skills.
• Price: $100

7. Bonsai Tree Kit

• Best for: Zen-loving teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Nurturing a living symbol.

8. Custom Puzzle

• Best for: Puzzle aficionados.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Unique leisure activity.
• Virtual Reality Headset
• Best for: Tech-savvy educators.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Immersive experiences.
• Price: $200

10. Starbucks Gift Card

• Best for: Coffee on-the-go teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Convenient indulgence.
• Love Percentage: 70%

Find a gift for your teacher with ease with Giftpack today :)

11. Engraved Glass Globe

• Best for: Geography teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Display of worldly curiosity.

12. Art Supplies Set

• Best for: Creative minds.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Fueling artistic expression.

13. Umbrella with Inspirational Quotes

• Best for: Those who appreciate positivity.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Encouragement during rain.
• Love Percentage: 75%

14. Personalized Bookmarks

• Best for: Avid readers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Thoughtful place-keeping.

15. DIY Craft Kit

• Best for: Crafty teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Creative outlet.

16. Language Learning Subscription

• Best for: Language enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Expanding horizons.
• Price: $150

17. Plant Pot Set

• Best for: Green thumbs.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Growing and nurturing plants.

18. Handmade Wind Chimes

• Best for: Garden lovers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Serene outdoor sounds.

19. Customized Desk Organizer

• Best for: Organized educators.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Practical and personalized.

20. Calligraphy Starter Kit

• Best for: Those interested in elegant writing.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Learning a beautiful skill.

21. Gourmet Chocolate Set

• Best for: Sweet-toothed teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Indulgent treats.

22. Local Artisan Gift Basket

• Best for: Supporting local businesses.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Unique local flavors.

23. Virtual Museum Tour Subscription

• Best for: History and art enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Exploring cultural heritage.

24. Fitness Tracker

• Best for: Health-conscious educators.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Encouraging an active lifestyle.

25. Personalized Music Playlist

• Best for: Music-loving teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Thoughtful collection of songs.
• Price: Free

26. Customized Board Game

• Best for: Game night enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Personalized entertainment.

27. Framed Vintage Map

• Best for: Wanderlust souls.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Decorative reminder of adventures.

28. Online Masterclass Subscription

• Best for: Lifelong learners.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Access to diverse expertise.

29. Knitting or Crochet Kit

• Best for: Crafty and patient teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Creating cozy items.

30. Astronomy Telescope

• Best for: Stargazing enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Exploring the cosmos.
• Price: $250

31. Exotic Cooking Ingredients Set

• Best for: Culinary adventurers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Global culinary exploration.

32. Customized Planner

• Best for: Organized and goal-oriented teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Planning with a personal touch.

33. Sustainable Eco-Friendly Set

• Best for: Eco-conscious educators.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Promoting a green lifestyle.

34. Virtual Reality Art Experience

• Best for: Art and technology lovers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Immersive artistic journey.

35. Personalized Name Necklace

• Best for: Jewelry enthusiasts.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Wearing a personalized piece.

36. Subscription to Mindfulness App

• Best for: Stress-relief seekers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Practicing mindfulness.

37. Let Them Choose Their Own Gift

• Best for: All teachers.
• Why They'll Cherish It: Empowering their choice.
• Price: Variable
• Love Percentage: 100%

With so many unique and thoughtful gift ideas to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect teacher appreciation gift in bulk. From personalized items that show you went the extra mile to practical supplies that will make their day-to-day life easier, these gifts are sure to bring a smile to any teacher's face.

So go ahead and show your appreciation with one of these 37 unique gifts for your favorite teachers. They'll feel the love and know just how much you value their hard work and dedication.

Find A Meaningful Teacher Appreciation Gift With Ease with Giftpack

Now, I know what you're thinking - finding the perfect gift for all the amazing teachers out there can be a daunting task. But fear not, because I've got the perfect solution for you. Allow me to introduce you to Giftpack, the ultimate gift-giving platform that will make your life so much easier.

At Giftpack, our mission is simple - to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. We understand that everyone has their own unique preferences and personalities, and that's why we've created a custom AI algorithm that tailors each gift selection process to the individual recipient.

Whether it's an employee, a customer, a VIP client, or even a friend or family member, Giftpack has got you covered. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (and counting), so you can be sure that each gift is as special and unique as the person receiving it.

And the best part? We do global delivery. That's right, no matter where in the world your recipient is, we'll make sure their gift arrives safely and on time. Talk about convenience!

But wait, there's more. Giftpack is not just about quantity, it's about quality too. We source our gifts from both local and global vendors, ensuring that each gift is of the highest quality and truly reflects the thought and care that went into selecting it.

So whether you're looking to show your appreciation to a single teacher or a whole school staff, Giftpack has got you covered. With our user-friendly platform, you can easily browse through our extensive catalog and find the perfect gifts for your recipients. And with our personalized gifting options, you can rest easy knowing that each gift is tailored to the recipient's tastes and preferences.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to show those amazing teachers just how much they mean to you. Head on over to Giftpack and let us take care of all your teacher appreciation gift needs. You won't be disappointed.

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Visit our product page to unlock the power of personalized employee appreciation gifts.

About Giftpack

Giftpack's AI-powered solution simplifies the corporate gifting process and amplifies the impact of personalized gifts. We're crafting memorable touchpoints by sending personalized gifts selected out of a curated pool of 3 million options with just one click. Our AI technology efficiently analyzes each recipient's social media, cultural background, and digital footprint to customize gift options at scale. We take care of generating, ordering, and shipping gifts worldwide. We're transforming the way people build authentic business relationships by sending smarter gifts faster with gifting CRM.

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Guest Essay

The Nobel Winner Who Liked to Collaborate With His Adversaries

By Cass R. Sunstein

Mr. Sunstein is a law professor at Harvard and an author of “Noise,” with Daniel Kahneman and Olivier Sibony.

Our all-American belief that money really does buy happiness is roughly correct for about 85 percent of us. We know this thanks to the latest and perhaps final work of Daniel Kahneman, the Nobel Prize winner who insisted on the value of working with those with whom we disagree.

Professor Kahneman, who died last week at the age of 90, is best known for his pathbreaking explorations of human judgment and decision making and of how people deviate from perfect rationality. He should also be remembered for a living and working philosophy that has never been more relevant: his enthusiasm for collaborating with his intellectual adversaries. This enthusiasm was deeply personal. He experienced real joy working with others to discover the truth, even if he learned that he was wrong (something that often delighted him).

Back to that finding, published last year , that for a strong majority of us, more is better when it comes to money. In 2010, Professor Kahneman and the Princeton economist Angus Deaton (also a Nobel Prize winner) published a highly influential essay that found that, on average, higher-income groups show higher levels of happiness — but only to a point. Beyond a threshold at or below $90,000, Professor Kahneman and Professor Deaton found, there is no further progress in average happiness as income increases.

Eleven years later, Matthew Killingsworth, a senior fellow at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, found exactly the opposite : People with higher income reported higher levels of average happiness. Period. The more money people have, the happier they are likely to be.

What gives? You could imagine some furious exchange in which Professor Kahneman and Professor Deaton made sharp objections to Dr. Killingsworth’s paper, to which Dr. Killingsworth answered equally sharply, leaving readers confused and exhausted.

Professor Kahneman saw such a dynamic as “angry science,” which he described as a “nasty world of critiques, replies and rejoinders” and “as a contest, where the aim is to embarrass.” As Professor Kahneman put it, those who live in that nasty world offer “a summary caricature of the target position, refute the weakest argument in that caricature and declare the total destruction of the adversary’s position.” In his account, angry science is “a demeaning experience.” That dynamic might sound familiar, particularly in our politics.

Instead, Professor Kahneman favored an alternative that he termed “adversarial collaboration.” When people who disagree work together to test a hypothesis, they are involved in a common endeavor. They are trying not to win but to figure out what’s true. They might even become friends.

In that spirit, Professor Kahneman, well into his 80s, asked Dr. Killingsworth to collaborate, with the help of a friendly arbiter, Prof. Barbara Mellers, an influential and widely admired psychologist. Their task was to look closely at Dr. Killingsworth’s data to see whether he had analyzed it properly and to understand what, if anything, had been missed by Professor Kahneman and Professor Deaton.

Their central conclusion was simple. Dr. Killingsworth missed a threshold effect in his data that affected only one group: the least happy 15 percent. For these largely unhappy people, average happiness does grow with rising income, up to a level of around $100,000, but it stops growing after that. For a majority of us, by contrast, average happiness keeps growing with increases in income.

Both sides were partly right and partly wrong. Their adversarial collaboration showed that the real story is more interesting and more complicated than anyone saw individually.

Professor Kahneman engaged in a number of adversarial collaborations, with varying degrees of success. His first (and funniest) try was with his wife, the distinguished psychologist Anne Treisman. Their disagreement never did get resolved. (Dr. Treisman died in 2018.) Both of them were able to explain away the results of their experiments — a tribute to what he called “the stubborn persistence of challenged beliefs.” Still, adversarial collaborations sometimes produce both agreement and truth, and he said that “a common feature of all my experiences has been that the adversaries ended up on friendlier terms than they started.”

Professor Kahneman meant both to encourage better science and to strengthen the better angels of our nature. In academic life, adversarial collaborations hold great value . We could easily imagine a situation in which adversaries routinely collaborated to see if they could resolve disputes about the health effects of air pollutants, the consequences of increases in the minimum wage, the harms of climate change or the deterrent effects of the death penalty.

And the idea can be understood more broadly. In fact, the U.S. Constitution should be seen as an effort to create the conditions for adversarial collaboration. Before the founding, it was often thought that republics could work only if people were relatively homogeneous — if they were broadly in agreement with one another. Objecting to the proposed Constitution, the pseudonymous antifederalist Brutus emphasized this point: “In a republic, the manners, sentiments and interests of the people should be similar. If this be not the case, there will be a constant clashing of opinions, and the representatives of one part will be continually striving against those of the other.”

Those who favored the Constitution thought that Brutus had it exactly backward. In their view, the constant clashing of opinions was something not to fear but to welcome, at least if people collaborate — if they act as if they are engaged in a common endeavor. Sounding a lot like Professor Kahneman, Alexander Hamilton put it this way : “The differences of opinion, and the jarrings of parties” in the legislative department of the government “often promote deliberation and circumspection and serve to check excesses in the majority.”

Angry science is paralleled by angry democracy, a “nasty world of critiques, replies and rejoinders,” whose “aim is to embarrass,” Professor Kahneman said. That’s especially true, of course, in the midst of political campaigns, when the whole point is to win.

Still, the idea of adversarial collaboration has never been more important. Within organizations of all kinds — including corporations, nonprofits, think tanks and government agencies — sustained efforts should be made to lower the volume by isolating the points of disagreement and specifying tests to establish what’s right. Asking how a disagreement might actually be resolved tends to turn enemies, focused on winning and losing, into teammates, focused on truth.

As usual, Professor Kahneman was right. We could use a lot more of that.

Cass R. Sunstein is a law professor at Harvard and an author of “Noise,” with Daniel Kahneman and Olivier Sibony.

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