How to Choose Teacher Gifts

Express your gratitude to a teacher with a thoughtful gift.

Chances are your child's teacher doesn't need another coffee mug. For the holidays or at the end of the year, select a gift that expresses your gratitude for the hard work and inspiration your teacher provides. Put some thought into your teacher's preferences and needs, then give a gift that you know she will appreciate.

Things You'll Need

• some time
• a little money
• a deserving teacher!

Instructions

1. Assemble a classroom album through a digital photo website. Ask parents to contribute photos and money to cover the cost of an album. Choose photos to document the year's activities, such as field trips, school performances and recess. Leave a page blank for students to write a message to the teacher.

2. Buy a gift certificate. Determine what stores or restaurants he likes and purchase a gift card from that merchant. Spa sessions, massages, cleaning services and bakeries are all options that a teacher may appreciate. If you are on a tight budget, offer a service that you can provide, such as babysitting, yard work or housecleaning.

3. Put together a summer fun basket. Buy an oversized beach bag and fill it with a beach towel, flip-flops, sunscreen, sunglasses, a great summer book, and a pretty sun hat. Ask your child to write a letter to the teacher to be read on a day during the summer, or include a stamped, self-addressed postcard for the teacher to send to you child.