Say no to mugs. Please, teachers from pre-K through college do not want mugs from parents or children. How should you show your appreciation to your child’s preschool teacher around the holidays?
Survey Says…
Julianna W. Miner and Claire Goss used the power of the internet to survey readers and teachers about thoughtful teacher gifts. Among the unwanted gifts:
- Anything teacher or apple-themed
- Candles
- Craft projects (Turn away from Pinterest. Just move on.)
- Home-made treats
- Large framed photos or art
- Mugs
Do not take this list personally if you have been the helpful parent to bake apple-shaped cookies and deliver them on a tray made from empty cereal boxes to your child care provider.
Most Wanted
Miner and Goss offer a charming and zero cost suggestion: a handwritten note simply telling what a child care provider’s influence has meant to a child. Beyond that, here are a few suggested, desired gifts:
- Gift cards—Preschool teachers drive the same roads and buy the same groceries you do; a gas card or grocery store gift card is helpful.
- A gift they want—Ask another preschool teacher to pass on to you what your own child’s teacher may have talked about. Give the teacher plenty of time to do your advance scouting.
- Cash - this allows them flexibility to choose their gift from whatever vendor or store they choose.
Second Opinion
The education department at Rasmussen College offers its own suggestions related to gifting a child care provider:
- School supplies—Every preschool, elementary and high school is chronically short of basic supplies. Put them together in an attractive arrangement in a plastic bin or basket that can also be used.
- Relaxation Help—Give tickets to a local movie theater, a Redbox® video rental gift certificate, or a movie snack ensemble.
Some preschools may take up a pre-holiday collection and then divide it evenly among staff members. For every gift, make certain your child’s name is on the gift! Thank-you notes are a lot harder when the gift seems anonymous.
What gifts for a child care provider have you given that turned out to touch a heart? Let us know at Kids Konnect, where your child receives the gift of a superb education every day.