Showing appreciation begins with words. A homemade card can say a great deal in a few words. With a little creativity students can easily turn cards into small books about the teacher, and educators cherish the precious keepsakes that result. Include personal drawings and photographs of the child and teacher. Fill the pages of the book with short poems or other writings about the teacher. An extended idea may be a book with pages from all the students in class. Younger students may need some adult organization. Students put the finishing touches on the beautiful keepsake book when they spiral bind it, tie it with ribbons or simply staple it.
There is an old saying that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and that saying is true for most people. The many teachers who work long hours and rarely have time to bake or cook at home feel especially appreciative of homemade treats. It is easy to investigate and discover a teacher's favorite treats, which makes the gift even more special. Bakers receive positive feedback with items such as cookies, bars and breads (pumpkin, banana or apple) that the recipient can freeze if desired. Specialty candies and chocolates with longer shelf life are also popular.
Teachers think practically and like useful gifts. Personal things a child knows about his teacher help with the ideas. For example, for a teacher who likes frogs, a stack of small note paper decorated with stamped or drawn frogs and tied with a green ribbon would be just right. For the teacher who likes a place for every little thing, a small handcrafted clay bowl for paper clips on her desk might be the ideal gift. Most teachers welcome storage or display ideas, and the student with woodworking or construction talent may enjoy tackling such a gift.
A student can arrange homegrown flowers with ribbons in the teacher's favorite color to provide a bouquet of thanks. A hand-painted clear drinking glass can serve as a small flower vase to provide a teacher with a breath of sunshine in the classroom. Regardless of age or talent, students can create artwork with paint, pencil and tissue paper for a well-received gift. More advanced students may use charcoal or chalk art to design a portrait or memorable scene. Students can use photographs from class activities and events to build a reflective collage. For a more finished product, students can make a frame around the artwork using thick cardboard or wood. Students should sign and date the artwork and include a personal message.