How To Find the Perfect Gift for Teachers
Give Teachers Thank You Presents that will be Truly Appreciated
Nov 23, 2008
Teachers’ salaries usually leave little over for luxuries. Follow these simple ideas to give a gift that is inexpensive, luxurious and truly appreciated.
Hand Crèmes, Soaps and Cosmetics
Many female teachers sigh at the sight of yet another gift pack containing soap, hand crème and bath salts. Male teachers, too, are likely to be disappointed with gifts of after-shave or deodorant. Some even take offense at these gifts, wondering if the giver is hinting that there is something wrong with their personal hygiene.
If you want to give a gift in this category, don’t go for cheap bulk. Go for a smaller amount of the best quality, like just one bar of luxury soap.
Hand Crafted Ornaments
Ornaments are always a bad idea unless you know the teacher very well. You are unlikely to match the teacher's taste, and just because you or your child thinks something is "cute" doesn’t mean the teacher will. An exception is if it’s handmade by your child. Most teachers will be touched by a craft item made with care by their pupil.
Luxury Food
Luxury foods, especially if they’re handmade, are always welcome. They don’t have to break the bank either – a bottle of homemade jam or marmalade, a box of homemade fudge, meringues or a small tin of homemade cookies will be gratefully received. A mug filled with chocolates will go down well too. In many staff rooms teachers bicker endlessly over the mugs, and a personalised mug will be particularly useful.
Gift Vouchers
Gift vouchers, even for a modest amount ,are always welcome – especially if they are for a mall rather than for specific shops. Most teacher appreciate book or CD vouchers.
Some Teacher Gifting Don’ts
Don’t give your teacher a very expensive gift as it will cause him or her embarrassment. Don’t give alcohol, as it may be against the school policy, and don’t give unusual foods like pickled garlic that are an acquired taste.
Give a Gift to Remember Even if You’re Totally Broke
All teachers respond gratefully to handwritten thank you notes, especially if they are specific in their thanks. “Dear Miss Jones, thank you for taking so much trouble this year with my spelling. I will always remember you when I have to decide between ‘they’re’ and ‘their’. happy holidays, love from Sarah,” will mean more to most teachers than the most expensive present given without the thought. Put the note in a pretty envelope, and if you’re feeling flush, attach a chocolate bar.
Ultimately, teachers want to know that their hard work was appreciated. An inexpensive but thoughtful present with a handwritten note will get an A+ every time.
Learn how to write a teacher thank you note to accompany your gift.
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