(Hint: Not an Apple)

by Ashley Talmadge

You’d like to thank your child’s classroom teacher with a special gift at the end of the year. But what do teachers really want? I was a teacher for several years before having my own children, and I’ve spoken to countless other teachers. Yes, most will graciously accept another “World’s Greatest Teacher” mug or mini chalkboard knickknack. But unless the teacher is collecting such items, they are best left on the store shelves. The following are some can’t-go-wrong ideas. (And be sure to check school policies, as many districts limit the value and type of gifts received by employees.)

Creative lists

If your child is young or does not enjoy writing, there are many clever ways to list the things he loves about his teacher. For instance, cut some construction paper shapes – hearts, leaves, flowers. Attach a word or phrase to each one, describing a favorite classroom experience or teacher trait. Stuff an envelope with several “shape messages,” along with a small signed photo of your child.

Gift cards

Although parents often say this feels impersonal, teachers love gift cards. They can choose what they want to buy and when. It’s a sad fact that most teachers spend more than $500 of their own money annually in purchasing classroom materials. Thus, gift cards to Target, Staples and Barnes & Noble are universally appreciated. Take care in giving gift cards for food and personal services. Most teachers would welcome a Starbucks card, but some might not be as enthused about the newest hotspot in raw foods cuisine. And make sure any spa services are flexible.

Food gifts

Teachers do enjoy edible gifts. Yet, they frequently receive so many home-baked muffins and cookies that much is thrown away. Keep in mind that many teachers leave town for vacation as soon as school lets out. And some won’t want to sabotage a diet with an influx of sweets. The best food gifts are non-perishable and healthy. Energy bars, nuts and dried fruit are at a premium. They can be stored and saved for a quick snack, whether the teacher is studying the new curriculum or flying across the country. 

Class gifts

Although it often takes a bit more planning, there are many benefits to presenting a gift from the whole group. Such a gift can show off the class’s personality, reduce the financial expenditure for individual families, and avoid any pretenses of favoritism. If the group decides to go in on a gift card, the teacher can be presented with much greater buying power. (At only $5 each, a class of 25 could give a $125 gift card, without violating most district policies.) When coordinating such efforts, it is important that the gift be presented from all students, whether or not they contributed financially, and all students should have a chance to sign the group card.