Teacher Gift Ideas

We're coming up to the end of the school year, and you may be looking for a thank you gift for you child's teacher. Let me tell you, my mother-in-law has been a teacher for many years, and the last thing any teacher wants is something with #1 Teacher on it. Back away, slowly. Do not buy it. Personalizing it doesn't make it better. The only teacher that may get a kick out of it is a first year teacher, and then if they have 30 students, they probably already have at least five of that same item.

So what do you buy for the teacher? Here's a couple of great ideas:

Gift cards to stores like WalMart, Target, or Office Supply stores: you may not realize it, but a pretty big chunk of classroom supplies come out of teacher's wallets, even in the best of school districts. They have to cover SO much, from Kleenex during cold season, to crayons for the kids who don't have any, to decorating the room. If you've helped out in the classroom, and know exactly what the teacher needs, feel free to make a large basket of those items (bought with coupons, of course)

Gift cards to a local grocery store: especially for teachers who teach younger students and have to help provide snacks

Gift cards to places like Bath & Body Works: Depending on the teacher, flat out buying it may be non appropriate (plus, scents can be so personal. You don't want to buy floral scents when they hate that!), but a gift card for $10 so the teacher can get either nice lotion to hide in her desk for dry hands, or a pretty scented bubble bath to relax after a trying day.

Yes, I know - there's a theme. Gift cards help teachers get exactly what they need for the room - let's face it, who knows better what is needed than the teacher themselves?

And what's always appreciated: a simple thank you. Moms, let's face it: a lot of us are thrilled when school starts back up - kids are someone else's problem for a few hours. (LOL) Thank the teacher who's stuck with your kid during those hours!