How to Find the Perfect Teacher Gift - Inexpensive Ideas

The school year is just about over. Your child has had an exceptional teacher. Here are a few ways to say "thank you" for a job well done.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. MOVIE BASKET: Purchase a large plastic bowl and fill it with a box of microwave popcorn, movie-sized candy, and a DVD movie. Many retailers sell DVD movies for $5 to $10 - pick a family favorite.

2. SUPPLY GIFT CARD: Many teachers purchase classroom supplies with their own paycheck. A gift card in any amount would be appreciated! Try retailers such as Michael's, Staples, Office Max, Wal-Mart, or AC Moore.

3. SUMMER FUN: If the teacher has children of their own, put together a summer fun bucket. Fill a large sand bucket with water balloons, bubbles, frisbee, beach ball and swim goggles.

4. DELICIOUS TREATS: A home baked treat makes a delicious and cheap gift. Think of cinnamon bread, fudge, or cookies. Wrap bread in foil and tie with a fancy ribbon. Present cookies or candy in an inexpensive container. Encourage your child to personalize the container lid with stickers, markers, or paint.

5. PRETTY BLOOMS: Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors. A hanging basket or plant in a pretty pot makes a great gift. If the teacher likes gardening, a decorative pot with a pair of gardening gloves and seed packets makes an awesome surprise.

6. WHAT'S FOR DINNER?: The gift of a quick-recipe cookbook or recipe box with a few of your favorite dinner recipes inside will make those busy days complete with an easy meal.

7. COFFEE BREAK: A pack of gourmet coffee and a nice mug are a classic favorite. Add a nice twist with a box of biscotti. Mix up a batch of instant cappuccino and tie a bow around the jar.

8. TEA TIME: Individual teapot with mug and a box of herbal tea is a relaxing treat. A tea ball and loose tea leaves also add a nice touch.

9. FOR THE BIRDS: A hummingbird feeder or small bird feeder is always appreciated. If you like, enclose a handbook on bird identification.

10. RELAX: A bottle of scented bath gel or lotion makes a wonderful gift. You may also wish to include foot cream, a scented candle, bath beads, or a rubber ducky to add a bit of whimsy.

11. READ IT: Books for the classroom make a wonderful gift for the teacher. Choose one of your child's favorite tales, and remember to sign the inside cover with your family's name and date. Books are a gift that keep on giving.

Tips & Warnings

• No matter what gift you choose, always include a note or card of thanks. Kind words are encouraging to any teacher after a long school year.

[BETHWATTS]

on 6/18/2008 Thoughts from a teacher:
*Gifts are thoughtful, but not neccessary. A real letter (not just thanks for teaching me) from a child has great meaning. Teacher's often do not know what has been appreciated.
*Don't give things with cute teacher sayings.
*Unless you know the teacher's taste well don't decorative items or smelly things.
*Gift cards to book stores allow teachers to buy something for themselves or the classroom.
-Thanks for your appreciation.