Top Ten Holiday Teacher Gifts That Any Teacher Would Love to Receive

0

Each year, I search for the perfect holiday teacher gifts for my children’s teachers.

I can’t think of a better way to show my appreciation for the hard-working men and women in my children’s lives than by giving them a small token of my appreciation. While I love to give holiday gifts, I also have an increased level of anxiety when it comes to picking out the perfect teacher holiday gift. I believe this is because oftentimes, I don’t know the gift receiver closely, I have a limited budget, and elementary school teachers often receive an abundance of gifts. Due to these factors, I want to make sure my gift is one that is enjoyed and doesn’t become a burden for my children’s teachers.

I decided for research purposes (of course) that I would go right to the source: a couple of friends of mine who teach at the elementary level. I asked them, “What do you enjoy to receive for holiday gifts and also what are some gifts that you could do without?”

As far as the “do without” gifts, I received one overwhelming response, “No candles.”

Apparently, both of my friends have drawers that are overflowing with candles. Each of my friends felt that there is simply not enough hours left in their lifetime to use all the candles they have received over the years, so please go ahead and scratch candles off your list. Another resounding “No” was directed at what is loving referred to as, “Teacher crap”: The World’s Best Teacher sign, or Number One Teacher cup. Neither of my friends felt comfortable proudly boasting about their status, so go ahead and take those out of your Amazon Prime cart.

Alright, now that the nos are over, let’s get to the good part, the yeses. In no particular order, and with help from my teacher friends, and my BVTMB team, I have assembled my top ten holiday teacher gifts.

# 1 – Gift card to a local coffee shop or bakery

This gift really is a win/win. The teacher who probably needs a little Monday morning pick me up can get a treat, and you get to support a local business. This year, I’m thinking of grabbing my kids’ teachers a gift card from Foothills Bakery in Fairfax for my son’s teacher and a gift card from the Traveled Cup for my daughter’s teacher in St. Albans.

Franklin County
Foothills Bakery

# 2 – Tote bag

One thing every teacher needs is another tote bag. Teachers use tote bags to separate everything. From the supplies needed for the reading corner in one bag, to the hats, scarves, and mittens for outdoor recess- you name it, everything gets carried back and forth to school each day in a tote bag. If you are thinking a tote bag would be a great holiday teacher gift, check out these adorable bags from Morado designs sold at BOHO baby. Each design is witty, eco-friendly, made by a local mom, and guaranteed to put a smile on your teacher’s face.

 

 # 3 – Key fobs

Most teachers have a set of keys they need to carry around with them, so why not provide a little color and organization to their keyring? A couple of years ago, I purchased a sewn key fob that slips around the wrist for all of my son’s teachers and they all raved about the gift. A key fob allows the teacher’s keys to be easier to find and overall, provides joy. You can find amazing key fobs sold by Kat’s Paws. Also, check out this very creative printable which provides a very creative backdrop for your gift, from A Girl and a Glue Gun.

# 4 – Chocolate from Snowflake Chocolates

I’m pretty sure that I haven’t met a teacher who doesn’t love chocolate. Most teachers have a little stash for a pick me up during the day. Why not add an extra special treat to their drawer? In my opinion, Snowflake Chocolates are a perfect gift to give as they have a price point for all budgets and their chocolate is absolutely delicious.

# 5 – Salt Dough Ornaments

Both of my friends stated how much they love to receive handmade gifts from their students. One of my friends takes all the ornaments given to her each year and places them around her classroom as a reminder of all her former students. How awesome is that? Here is a simple recipe that you can make with your child to create your own personalized salt dough ornament.

# 6 – Blanket

Every teacher can use a blanket to help warm up during Vermont’s blustery winters. Cute and warm fleece blankets are easily available at your local retailer. However, if you want to really go over the top, check out these monogrammed blankets by Miss Marisa’s Monograms. Add a cute gift tag with the saying, “The snuggle is real,” like Cara from Pearls, Handcuffs, and Happy Hour did, and your gift will be sure to put a smile on any teacher’s face.

# 7 – Pure Vermont maple syrup

Just like chocolate, I have yet to meet a teacher who doesn’t love pure maple syrup. Maple syrup makes a great gift because it supports a local farmer, has a long shelf life, and can be used as a healthy sugar alternative in baking. Grab a pint from your favorite local farm and you are good to go.

# 8 – Succulents

Thanks to Joanna Gaines from Fixer Upper, succulents are very on trend right now. It is easy to see why as these plants are next to impossible to kill, can be planted in almost any vessel, and are very affordable. Feeling like you don’t have a green thumb of your own to create your own planting? Head over to your favorite local garden store such as Claussen’s in Colchester to pick up the perfect potted succulent.

succulent

# 9 – Lottery tickets

Who doesn’t love to dream? I love giving lottery tickets as a gift because they are something that I feel the recipient would never splurge on for themselves, even if they are fun to play every once in awhile. With scratch tickets available for purchase from $1.00 to $20.00, lottery tickets are the perfect gift for any budget.

#10 –  Redbox Codes

I love theme gifts and Redbox codes provide the ability to create a movie night themed gift that is very affordable. Go to redbox.com and you can purchase a Redbox code. Codes are sold in bundles of five individual promo codes for the cost of $7.50. The codes can be individually broken up or given as a bunch to one lucky teacher. This low price point makes for the perfect gift to give if you have a massive number of teachers to provide gifts for. After purchasing your promo codes, head on over to Pinterest and type in holiday Redbox codes. Choose your favorite printable, such as this adorable one provided by What Mommy Does. Next, attach the holiday printable with the promo code to a bag of microwave popcorn, add in a bag of candy, and boom! You have an instant movie night themed gift for under $3.00 dollars per person.

Are there any other must-have gifts that I should add to my list? If so, let me know in the comments below, and happy shopping!

 
 

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here