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Teacher gifts for the end of school year

May 14, 6:40 AMParenting ExaminerKaren Deerwester
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Looking for teacher gift ideas?  It's time to show your child's teacher how much you appreciated his or her efforts this year.  Teachers, like parents, work really hard for the love of it.  They are underpaid and underappreciated in a world that celebrates celebrity and showmanship.  They are idealists who believe in the possibilities of a better future.  Set aside some time in the weeks ahead to think about a meaningful way for you to say "thanks" for the last nine months.
The best gifts, affordable by all, are personal notes from you and from your child.  Buy an inexpensive paper frame and write a personal note next to a memorable moment from this year.  A letter with heartfelt thanks for the teacher's unique talents and style will be saved for a lifetime.  Yes, teachers are very sentimental people.  Online photo services, like Snapfish, also have great memory-making ideas.  Keep it simple though - no coffee mugs with your child's picture. 
If the teacher has taught more than two years, she really cannot use more cutesy teacher paraphenalia with apples and alphabets.  You're better off giving a bookstore gift card than another inspirational book about teaching.  Inexpensive gift cards for coffee shops, ice cream shops, bakeries and donut shops, or Target are winners.  You'd be amazed at all the gifts a teacher can pick for himself at Whole Foods.
Think of your teacher's interests, hobbies and style.  Give something meaningful - craft items for a crafter or a museum pass for art lover.  Give something for next year's classroom - a book, gift card for art supplies or a new game. 
Invite other parents to join together for larger theme gifts:
  • Pamper Basket: filled with favorite sweets, select herbal teas, relaxation music and a spa-finder gift card.
  • Night Out Goody Bag: movie passes, restaurant gift card for dinner or dessert, Zagat subscription to your city and babysitting coupon. 
  • Night In:  Moose Munch from Harry and David and video rentals with pizza delivery and a bottle of wine. 

Teachers are people.  Avoid the "favorite teacher" stereotype and your teacher will love being acknowledged and appreciated for who she/he is.

 

For more info: While it's usually a good idea to stay away from "teacher gifts" - apple ornaments and A+ teacher plaques, Gifts.com has some "teacher" items that aren't too cheesy (like the flower pots).
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