Teacher Gifts

​Dear Minorcan Mama,
I have three children, one in pre-school, one in 7th Grade and one in 9th Grade and I am looking for new, inexpensive ideas for end of the school year teacher gifts.  What do you suggest?
Thank You,
Thankful Parent

Dear Thankful,
Teachers work hard all year to help our children learn and grow, so if you are able to, it is a thoughtful gesture to give them a token of your appreciation.  I surveyed teachers and found that all of them appreciated hand-written notes from your child, the most.  My suggestion to you would be to have your child create a card that expresses in words and in pictures, for younger children, what they have learned this year and what they appreciate about the teacher.  Use the supplies you have on hand or purchase some nice paper and other art supplies and let your kids have free reign!  Teachers also appreciate handmade gifts. Local mom, Whitney, told us via Social Media that she has her children make bookmarks for their teachers that she then laminates. What an inexpensive and easy gift!  She also suggests letting your kids decorate pots and giving a potted plant.  If you would like to purchase a gift, teachers appreciate gift cards.  Another local mom, Bethany, likes to give gift cards to places where teachers can treat themselves because, as she says, “they spend so much time raising our children, I want them to be able to go get something or do something for themselves.”  All of the teachers asked loved gifts cards, with ones to nail salons and to places where they can buy classroom supplies, at the top of their list.  While they all said any and all gestures are appreciated, I would suggest staying away from perfumes, soaps, or lotions, as some might be allergic.  And my bottom line to you would be to let your children lead the way. No matter the gift, the thoughtful, kind, gesture will mean so much to the teacher!
Warm Regards,
MM