A few holiday seasons ago, I found myself in a bind. On the last day of school before the winter break when I went to drop my son off at school, I saw a lot of parents with arms full of gifts. I was already frazzled from preparing for my son’s birthday party as well as the holiday recital, which was the night before. Oh yeah, and there’s the dish I had to make for the potluck. My gas tank was empty and unbeknownst to me, I needed to get gifts for teachers and assistant teachers and after care teachers. Teachers, teachers, teachers. Arrgggghhh!! Nobody put “Get Christmas gifts for teachers” in my parenting handbook.
Needless to say, I had to hurry off and find gifts for two teachers and three after care providers within a few short hours. That was nothing compared to the following year when my daughter started going to the same school and those numbers doubled. YIKES! So in honor of the holidays, here are my top ten gifts for teachers.
10. Big Ticket Item
Team up with some other parents to get something other than the typical coffee mug. Maybe find out what kind of music teacher likes and get some concert tickets. Or try a day at an upscale spa such as Burke Williams. If it’s one thing a teacher can use, it’s some unwind time. Gotta make sure they are well rested when they return to educate our children.
9. Anything handmade
I’m personally a big fan of all things handmade. It shows you took time and that you care. I’m not exactly crafty so I don’t have any specific suggestions but look around Etsy, you may find some ideas.
8. Subscriptions
I call this the gift that keeps on giving. One of my girlfriends gave me a magazine subscription for Christmas one year and it was nice to receive a magazine in the mail every month. On top of that, you can get a subscription for under $15.
7. Food
We all have to eat don’t we? Fruit basket, flavored popcorn in a tin can, basket of cheese. Take your pick. My neighbor gave me a basket of miniature muffins after I had Bam Bam and I thought it was the absolute BEST gift. My S.O. enjoyed it too.
6. Philosopots
I couldn’t do this without a shameless plug from {lovechilde}. Philosopots are whimsical flower pots, hand 'quoted' in dozens of different colors and embellishments inscribed with various messages such as “Teachers plant the seeds that last forever” or “Teachers change the world one child at a time”. Your kid’s teacher can display it on his/her desk throughout the year.
5. Miniature spa treatment
If you’re unable to join forces with other parents on a big ticket spa package, maybe try a simple certificate for a mani/pedi at a local nail parlor. After all, it’s the thought that counts.
4. Movie tickets
What can I say about movie tickets that you don’t already know? Exactly.
3. Bath/Spa products
This is my third post on this list with the word ‘spa’ in it. Take it from me, you can never have too much spa. Visit your local Body Shop or Bath & Body Works. They are always running specials on bath and shower gels. The only time this would not be a good gift is if your teacher has sensitive skin.
2. Book
Share your favorite book or opt for the gift certificate so he/she can choose. The possibilities are pretty endless in the bookstore.
1. Gift Certificates
Although somewhat impersonal, gift certificates are super easy and you can control your spending. Pick the denomination that works best for your budget. Most stores sell gift certificates including the grocery store. Starbucks is a popular choice as well as Target.
Please do not do like me and wait until the last minute. The last day of school is a mere three days away and my son’s birthday is in four days. What have I gotten for the teachers and the birthday boy? I have some quick decisions ahead of me. The joys (and pains) of the holiday season.
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