As soon as we hit June the end of the school year seems to come so quickly. One minute you’re labelling water bottles and hunting for missing PE kits and the next you’re blinking back tears as you realise your child is another year older and their lovely teacher has been a daily part of their life for the past 10 months. Whether it’s their first year in Reception or they’re heading off to secondary school saying thank you to a teacher can feel like a big deal!
So, what do you actually buy a teacher to show your appreciation?
Personalised gifts but be thoughtful about them!
Think keyrings, tote bags or notebooks. Things that are actually useful. Something with the child’s name and year or a little message can feel really special.
A heartfelt thank you card!
A card with a handwritten message from your child can mean more than anything money can buy. Teachers will often keep these in a little stash for when they’ve had a rough day. Bonus points if your child draws a little picture of the classroom or writes something funny they’ve remembered.
Gift vouchers!
It might not seem personal but it’s genuinely one of the most appreciated gifts. Whether it’s for a coffee shop, book store or Amazon! Vouchers allow teachers to treat themselves to something they’ll actually use. Even a £5 voucher feels like a little luxury especially when you add a note showing your appreciation.
Plants or flowers!
A cheerful potted plant or a little bunch of flowers can brighten their home (or classroom). Opt for something low maintenance, think succulents or mini roses. Just avoid huge bouquets that are difficult to get home on the bus.
A group gift!
If you’re in a WhatsApp group with other parents why not club together for one lovely gift? It could be a spa voucher, a restaurant gift card or a nice bottle of fizz. One amazing gift can sometimes mean more than ten novelty candles.
What Not to Buy a Teacher!
While all gifts are appreciated in spirit there are a few things that can be a bit questionable. Here’s what might be better left on the shop shelf:
"World’s Best Teacher" tat!
Yes, it’s cute but how many plaques, mugs and fridge magnets can one person own? After five years of teaching, they’ve probably got a drawer full.
Anything too personal!
Scented body lotion, bath bombs or perfumes sound like a nice idea unless the teacher is allergic, hates strong smells or already has a shelf full. Unless you know their preferences it’s safer to skip it.
Homemade food (unless you’re really confident)!
While that tray of cupcakes might look delicious to you, teachers can be a bit cautious about homemade treats (allergies, hygiene and all that). Shop bought goodies might be a better bet or just stick to the card!
Joke gifts!
Unless you know the teacher well enough to be sure they’ll take it in good humour it’s best not to go down the novelty route. That huge wine glass or cheeky coaster might be hilarious to you but it might not land the same way with everyone.
Do you buy the teachers presents at the end of the school year?
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