Christmas Gifts and Crafts for Teachers
When you're making your Christmas list, don't forget your children's teachers. They are a huge part of your child's development and giving them a gift at Christmas lets them know they are appreciated and loved. Gifts should be very simple, well-thought-out items, and there's no need to purchase something expensive. But just because you are giving an inexpensive gift, it does not mean that it has to be cheap.
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Apples
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Apples are a very traditional gift for teachers, but you can use apples in other ways for Christmas gifts. An apple-scented candle, a bag of dried apples or an apple charm for a necklace are all fun alternatives. You can also have your child paint an abstract picture of an apple for his/her teacher. Original artwork or a homemade craft just might be one of the most appreciated gifts for a teacher. If you are very traditional, you can pick out a variety of apples to fill a nice gift basket. Finish the basket off with a nice bow, or wrap cellophane around the basket.
Books
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For younger kids, or for children with a talent for writing, an original story in the child's handwriting will be highly valued. Have your child write a story about their time at school, a favorite Christmas tradition or a silly story they want to tell. When the story is finished, help them with ideas for the illustrations. A simple binding can be used with decorated cardboard and twine or using a three-ring binder. If the teacher has talked about a favorite author, a copy of the author's book would be a thoughtful Christmas gift. To personalize the book, you can have your child write a short Christmas note in the front page of the book.
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Jewelry
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Bracelets and necklaces are great pieces of jewelry for teachers and can be simple to make. Visit your local craft store for a few of the items you will need, such as elastic, beads, charms and clasps. For the beads, you can buy plain wooden beads and let your child paint the beads to personalize the piece. Children will most likely be able to string the beads on their own, but they will need your help with the clasps. If you choose to purchase a bracelet or necklace, you can find very affordable pieces at most stores or boutiques.
Relaxation
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Being a teacher can be a very stressful job, no matter how much you love to teach. Give your child's teacher the chance to relax at home, away from the stresses and noise of the school. Fill a basket with relaxing scents of lavender, chamomile or energizing citrus and mint. You can help your child make bath salts to place in the basket. An affordable bath pillow, bubble bath, body wash, sponge or loofah, and a candle is all your teacher will need to relax. If your teacher is a man, you can switch out the bath products with a sports magazine, candy bars and their favorite soda.
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