As the school year draws to a close, most schools will be celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week sometime during the month of May. Teachers love to feel appreciated (doesn’t anyone, though?!), because too often, the amount of work they do goes unnoticed and unacknowledged. Teacher Appreciation Week is the perfect time to celebrate the amazing teachers you know and to let them know that you do notice all the work they do!
Here are a few ideas for simple ways to show your gratitude:
- A heartfelt note from you and/or your child. I still have a file of all the kind notes that were given to me over my years of teaching! They are some of my most treasured possessions.
- A gift card to their favorite restaurant
- A gift card to the movie theater— teachers deserve a break!
- Their favorite snack, treat, or drink
- If they like to read, a new book might be a great gift.
- School supplies are always needed and welcomed!
- A gift basket with some summer essentials— a beach towel, sunscreen, and some treats!
- A gift card to treat themselves to something at their favorite store or online shopping spot
- Print out a cute tag that goes along with a little gift (Pinterest has SO many to choose from). I’ve added one at the bottom of this post that you’re welcome to print out and use! Just attach to a small reusable tote bag, and you’re set! I left the bottom corner open so you can write your child’s name on the tag.
From a teacher’s perspective, here are a few things to maybe think twice about before gifting (not because we’re not grateful— we are! But because some of these things can be very specific to each individual person):
- Anything scented— some people are sensitive to scents or prefer certain scents over others.
- Mugs— most teachers have enough mugs to fill an entire cabinet!
- Homemade food or treats— some teachers have food allergies, and without knowing if the food contains any allergens or if there is cross-contamination, they may be hesitant to enjoy the treat.
- Live plants or flowers— they aren’t for everyone, and not everyone has a place to plant them or put them.
Whatever you choose to do to show your gratitude, I’m certain it will be gladly and happily accepted. It doesn’t have to be a huge, lavish gift. A simple note goes further than you might ever know. Be sure to thank the amazing teachers in your life!