Every year, my girlfriends always discuss what to get their child’s teacher for the holidays. As sweet and generous as it is, we must say, as teachers ourselves, it is completely NOT necessary to get us anything! A simple warm wish for the holidays or a thank you will do. We actually really love getting written thank you cards from students. However, if you are planning on buying your child’s teacher (or teachers) a gift, we thought we would shed some light on what NOT to get teachers, as well as provide some suggestions.
First off, what NOT to buy for a teacher:
- Candy – Unless you know exactly the kind of candy the teacher likes, do not get them candy! There’s a good chance it is just going to go to wasted.
- Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts gift card – Again, unless you know the teacher frequents that establishment, do not get them this! If you prefer to get the teacher a gift card, go with Target, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble.
- Home Decor – Unless you have been to the teacher’s home and know his or her style (maybe the teacher lives in district and is a family friend), we’d avoid this. Our only exception would be a beautiful candle or diffuser that’s pretty neutral in design. Just be careful picking a scent…do not get something too strong. (see boutique below for an example.)
- Sweaters or Cardigans – We are not one size fits all, and by this, I am really taking about style. What works for one might not work for another. Plus, do you really want to be guessing their size?
- Planner – Teachers generally like to choose their own planner. We can be very picky about the style, layout, what is included, etc.
What to buy for a teacher:
We have created a little boutique below of some great gifts for teachers. All the gifts are under $30. Some are even under $20. We wanted to include wine, but we didn’t think that was appropriate, although I did get my son’s preschool teachers bottles of wine last year…they really deserved it! Anyhow, here’s a little explanation for our favorite items:
- A Good Water Bottle – There is a reason why S’well water bottles are all the rage these days…they are amazing! As teachers, we talk A LOT, so constant consumption of water is key for getting through the day. These bottles keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours. They can also keep hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours. We have also included an eco-friendly Kate Spade water bottle, which comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
- Lip Stuff – So yea…we talk a lot! Talking incessantly + cold dry air = no bueno. Fresh is a great brand that makes cute lip sets that include balms and scrubs. It’s like these sets were just made for teachers!
- Quality Hand Cream – In addition to talking a lot, we also wash our hands a lot. We love these moisturizing sets from Kiehl’s. They even have a Disney collection that’s available right now that would be perfect for elementary teachers.
- Mini Emergency Kit – This is my favorite! It has everything and it’s perfect for keeping in your desk drawer. It includes deodorant towelette, stain remover, nail polish remover, dental floss, clear nail polish, lip balm, breath freshener, hair spray, mending kit with safety pin, double-sided tape strips, clear elastics, emery board, bobby pins, and hair spray. It comes in a cute little pouch (which is available in pink or yellow) and is only $21!
- Slippers – Okay, we know that we said one size does not fit all, but if it’s a teacher you know well, you might be able to estimate their size. Teachers are on their feet all day, so they could use something soft to slip into when they get home. Also, they can even wear them at school. Yes, at school! In between class periods when I am grading or planning, I often take off my heels and put on a pair of flip flops. Well, these cute slippers would be a much better option!
Another great gift for really anyone are these gorgeous blanket scarves from ILYMIX Boutique. We both own a few and they are awesome! You can wear them in various ways and they are perfect for the classroom or for the weekend. My radiator in my classroom doesn’t function properly, so I am always cold! I am always throwing mine on to keep me warm. They are completely affordable PLUS you can get 20% off your order using code balancing20. Oh, and they offer free shipping worldwide. 🙂
To check out these gorgeous scarves, click here –> ILYMIX Boutique
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