Your paraeducator may not realize how much he or she means to you. All of the students can tell her or him through handwritten letters or journals. The students can share special memories they have of the paraeducator through the written word. They can talk about how the paraeducator has helped them and explain some of the specific lessons that they have learned from him or her. In many cases, their writing skills will be attributed to the paraeducator. Younger children who cannot yet write can either dictate their letters to an adult or draw pictures that express their feelings
Paraeducators work very hard and do not often get pampered themselves. Students can make a feast for their paraeducator. Each child, parent or teacher can bring in a different food dish. You can serve the paraeducator during a special luncheon or meal or you can place the food items into a basket for a take-home feast. Make an entire meal from appetizer to dessert or create a basket filled with different goodies. Make certain to pay attention to any dietary restrictions the paraeducator has.
Let the paraeducator be royalty for the day. The teachers can chip in and purchase services, such as a manicure or massage, at a day spa. If there are preferred parking spots, then give the paraeducator one. Bring flowers, a balloon and a card for the paraeducator. Many paraeducators work as assistants, but for this day, assign someone to be the paraeducator's assistant. Everyone should go out of their way to be helpful and kind to the paraeducator. For a creative touch, everyone can call him or her "king" or "queen."
A paraeducator generally sees many children through a lifetime of work and each is important. Though memories fade, you can celebrate Paraeducator Appreciation Day with a video that will help preserve these memories forever. Record a video of the students, teachers and others who work with the paraeducator talking about what they have accomplished. You can include video of the paraeducator working with the children or just of the children in general. Play the video during a special event to celebrate Paraeducator Appreciation Day.