Have you hugged a teacher today?

Have you hugged a teacher today?  As we are vastly approaching the halfway point of Teacher Appreciation Week, I can honestly say I have never been so honored to be in a profession.  The letters, kind words, original works of art that have greeted me at my desk every morning; all wonderful displays of love and affection by my little ones and their generous guardians.  Although it is fair to say the greatest gift a teacher can receive is a student succeeding independently, these genuine reminders of affection are attributes that are immensely appreciated.  If you're a parent that has been meaning to thank your child's teacher but just haven't had the time, or have no idea what to do, here are some ideas from students that are simple and heartfelt.

1. Homemade Card

Get out that construction paper, markers, and scissors and have a jolly time with your little one as you make  a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that your child's teacher will think is so precious.  It is true when they say "it's the thought that counts," and this gesture is definitely no exception to this rule!
 Have no construction paper?  Add a twist with some wrapping paper, or even an old paper menu. Safely glue a napkin over the writing so you can add your own. The possibilities are endless.

2. An apple for my teacher

One of the sweetest gifts I have ever been given was by one of my second graders last year.  She brought in an apple, and with it said to me "This apple looks like a heart, and I wanted you to know that you have a place in mine."  Yes, the thought still brings me to tears because it was sincerely the most honest and compelling gesture a student has ever initiated herself.  From the mouths of babes, little ones have by far the greatest imaginations and if we simply allow them to take the lead, they will find something quite fitting to say "thank you". 

3. The most precious gift of all

My Grams always told me the greatest gift a person can give is their time.  This is definitely true in the classroom as well.  Students (especially young ones) love it when their parents come in to visit, and teachers definitely appreciate the extra set of eyes and hands.  Being able to take a few minutes off of work to work with your child in her classroom is beneficial to the entire unit involved, as it provides you that sacred bonding time with your child and lets you see them "at the workplace".  Just like your child gets mystified stepping onto your job site, young students love parents seeing them at work. In this day and age, spending time with each other is so invaluable and precious, so don't forget the gift of reading to the class or helping out for an activity. 

The greatest gift a teacher can receive is the success of a student, but we know it takes a village to make this possible and appreciate the support of parents and the community more than is generally spoken.  Have you hugged a teacher today?  Happy hunting!