WHAT TO GET THE TEACHER
Tips to help you say thank you
As we approach the holiday season, it’s natural for parents to think — or worry — about holiday gifts for teachers. This used to bring great stress in my household, and I know others have felt the same way.
However, from my perspective as a teacher, I have learned a few things that can take the stress or worry out of holiday gift giving.
First, no one is obligated to give their child’s teacher a gift. Teachers are professionals, paid to do a job; a gift isn’t required.
Still, we have always tried to give our children’s teachers something at the holidays, even though it’s very modest.
Most teachers routinely work beyond contractual obligations. Acknowledging this effort with a gift can have a replenishing effect, and the value of the gift often exceeds the actual cost.
If, however, you worry about lack of creativity, lack of time or lack of funds, perhaps the fol- lowing ideas can help simplify a busy time, assuage stress, and maximize the impact of your generosity.
(These ideas are based on my own experience and a non-scientific survey of other teachers.)
IT REALLY IS THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS
As a teacher, a list of my favourite gifts over the years would reveal no pattern beyond the fact that someone acknowledged my efforts and remembered me. Everything from movie passes to a musical snow globe to gift cards to homemade fudge have come across my desk at the holidays, and each made an impact because of the thought. Most teachers feel the same.
START WITH A NOTE
You needn’t find a unique tchotchke, an apple-themed ornament or make a clever craft. One of the best gifts will be free and unique: A detailed note of gratitude. Everyone I surveyed expressed 100 per cent con- sensus in this regard. Teachers cherish sincere, specific notes from a child or parent because they generally go into education hoping to make a difference in someone’s life.
CONSIDER GIFT CARDS
They may seem impersonal, but who doesn’t love to buy themselves something fun? Even a modest gift card can be a welcome indulgence for a teacher on a tight budget.
STAY GENERAL UNLESS YOU KNOW OTHERWISE
Unless you know the teacher’s specific preferences, a good rule of thumb might be to go with something that allows many options. For example, a Visa or Amazon card may feel generic, but will allow the teacher to find exactly what they want. Gift certificates to local bookstores are also perennial favourites.
CONSIDER GROUP GIFTS
One year, the parents in my son’s class all contributed what they could, then purchased a generous gift card. Every child also drew a picture and wrote what they loved about the teacher; those entries were then compiled into a book.
ASK ABOUT INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPLY NEEDS
Depending on the fiscal situation of your child’s school, your teacher might need instructional or classroom supplies. However, check first, since this can vary from school to school.
THINK ABOUT FOOD SPOILAGE
Homemade treats can be a lovely way to show appreciation — that’s usually what we do. However, consider something that won’t spoil quickly.
My children ensure nothing ever lasts long enough to spoil at our house, but in smaller households it can be challenging to consume everything immediately.
BE SENSITIVE
If your child has multiple teachers, it might not be feasible to give the same gift to everyone. If you can, that’s wonderful. If not, be thoughtful and discreet.
REMEMBER THOSE WHO MIGHT BE OVERLOOKED
If you’re able, look beyond the obvious candidates. Every school has a few popular teachers that everyone loves. But the less charismatic teachers work hard, too, and so do the non-teaching members of the staff. One parent at our school remembered the custodians and receptionist every year with a plate of baked goods.