Hi Mamas,
My son is going to a brand new school this year and his teachers just got their classroom last Monday. They have been working really hard and long days this past week. I know it's their job and all but I thought it would be nice to do something for them, like a little gift or homemade goodies, to show that we appreciate them. He has three teachers and I don't have a lot of money to spend so I'm thinking baked goods like muffins or cookies. Do you have any ideas or suggestions?? Thanks!
~M.
just a thought....a while back some kids gave a bunch of the teachers at Lake Highlands High food poisening with home made treats, I was teaching at the time and it made me very leary of eating anything homemade. But I agree with the giftcard idea even in small amounts, or the volunteering!
good luck
Do a teacher survival kit:
Crayon- to color your day bright and cheerful
Candle- for when your are up late grading papers
Hugs and Kisses- for when you need a hug
Rubberband- to remind you to be flexible
Eraser- to remind you that everyone makes mistakes and they can be erased
Marbles- to replace the ones that you have lost
Lifesaver candy- you are a lifesaver to many of your students
Jewel- because you are as valuable as a precious stone
Puzzle piece- without you the class wouldn't be complete
Paperclip- to hold it all together
Mounds bar- for the mounds of confidence you give your students
Shiny Penny- to remind you, each will shine in their own special way
Ear plugs- when you just can not take anymore
Starburst- to give you a "burst" of energy when you need it
Mint-to remind you that you are worth a "mint" to your students
Tissues- to wipe away the tears...yours and theirs
Gum-to help your class "stick" together
Bandaid- to help fix any hurt feelings
When I was teaching, I had a parent that brought me in fresh blueberry muffins every month or so. It was so nice because there were often times that I was so rushed to get things ready for my classroom that I didn't have much time to stop and eat breakfast.
Gift cards to places like Starbucks or anywhere you find out that the teacher likes to go are always a huge hit too. She may not be a coffee drinker, but may like soft drinks - then Sonic may be a good place. ($5 at sonic buys about 4 drinks).
Another thing you could do is find out her favorites - drinks, foods, candy, snacks, etc... Surprise her at the end of a hot day with a huge drink of her choice and maybe a snack or candy bar. We had wonderful parents where I taught, and they always came up with very creative ways to make us feel special.
Whatever you chose to do, I am sure that they will be very happy to know that you took a little time to think of them.
My best friend is a teacher and she says gift cards are what she loves. It dosen't matter if it is $5 or $100. $5 for Starbucks can get a nice coffee on the way to work in the morning.
As a former teacher, any gesture would be appreciated! I would especially include a kind note with whatever you decide. Baked goods sound very nice. If they share an office, a plant or small bouquet of flowers would also be thoughtful. Keep it little as space may be limited. I am sure they will appreciate that you noticed their efforts-- it is very hard to prepare for the school year, but especially when your time is very limited in your new classroom. The one year I opened a new school, my right wrist was broken. A parent came in and helped me put up my bulletin boards-- she was not even one of my parents-- and I was so very grateful!
Have a great school year!
A.
M.,
I think that is a really sweet and thoughtful idea. I was a teacher before I was a SAHM, and I remember how tired I was with all the preparations leading up to the first day of school. I am sure they would really appreciate your thoughtful gesture. I think cookies or baked goods would be great, but I don't think it matters what you give them- just the fact that you took the time to recognize the work that they are doing and show your appreciation will really touch them.
K.
My friend is a teacher, and I cannot tell you how many knick knacks and mugs she has received over the years, many of which ends up at Goodwill.
She also said the best gifts were gift cards or baked goodies, or even a simple drawing from the child.
I was a teacher as well and one thing I enjoyed most was when parents volunteered to help in the classroom. I received a homemade coupon that stated whenever I needed her three times in the classroom for whatever I could cash it in. The great thing was that it expired every month and if I did not cash it in I would lose my volunteer the following month. After I used all three times the first of every month I would get another. It said something like Teacher Appreciation from a parent.
Our teachers love Starbucks so we slip them a little Starbucks gift card occasionally.
Susan
M.,
you might ask your PTA what they are doing. The PTAs almost always give the teachers money for their classroom supplies (ours give each $50) and some PTAs did lunch last week for the teachers when they were setting up.
With that said, Starbucks is always a nice treat too.
I usually send in muffins or cookies several times per year, and the teachers share with their teams. I always enclose a card thanking them for working so hard. They always seem to appreciate the unexpected gestures, and genuine thanks.
