Many teachers end up spending a portion of their own hard-earned money to ensure their classroom is fully stocked with essentials like paper, chalk, pencils, crayons and tissues. A small bundle of school supplies such as a few reams of copy paper, a pack of construction paper, and several boxes of crayons would make a practical gift for your child's teacher. This also ensures that money the teacher earns stays in his own pocket.
There are many options for a small traditional teacher gift. You may want to buy something to brighten up the teacher's classroom. A potted plant, either greenery or flowering, makes a lovely addition to a classroom with windows. Many teachers enjoy their coffee in the classroom every morning. An insulated coffee mug and a small bag of specialty coffee make an inexpensive but memorable gift.
An edible gift will ensure that the teacher does not have an afternoon blood sugar slump. Assemble a fruit basket easily and inexpensively. Fill a small attractive basket with a small bunch of bananas, a few oranges, apples and kiwis, or a large bunch of grapes. Another idea is a small box of specialty chocolates. Many shopping malls have specialty chocolatiers. Have your child pick out a custom selection for her teacher.
Gifts that your child makes for the teacher carry special meaning. Have your child make a teacher appreciation card for the teacher. Your child can dictate a message to you telling how much he appreciates the teacher. Bake a dozen cookies to finish off the gift.
A group gift from every student in the class requires some organization but can make a lasting impression. If every student in the class pitches in $5, the class can purchase a large gift certificate to a spa, several restaurants or an office supply store, or it can just give the teacher cash.