Teachers, particularly gifted English teachers, inspire us. So we think it is right to give good English teachers a little something in return for the guidance, knowledge, and skill these teachers have shared with us. If you or your child likewise feels indebted to your teacher, then you might consider getting your teacher a gift. But what is a good gift idea for teachers?
The most common gift ideas for teachers are mugs with funny inscriptions or “World’s Greatest Teacher” diplomas. These gifts for teachers are inexpensive and easy-to-find and probably express what you want to say. But just imagine how many coffee mugs or mock diplomas a teacher will receive in their lifetime. You might want to think more creatively about the gift you choose for your teacher.
Here are some other good gift ideas for teachers:
Personal thank you note. Express your gratitude in your own words, by writing a sincere message. Your own words are more important and more meaningful than the words on a pre-made thank you card.
Gift books. There are some great gift books that your teacher will just love. One of the best of these gift books for teachers, especially for English teachers, is Funny English Errors and Insights: Illustrated, which includes a selection of real-life student bloopers. Your teacher will not only get a good laugh from this book, but also material they can share with the class!
Framed artwork. A picture you drew, a poem you wrote, or even a photograph you took of you and your teacher, when nicely framed, is another good gift idea for teachers.
Home cooking. A home-made pie, cake, batch of cookies, or whatever your skills allow you, will always be a well-received thank you gift for teachers, which can be shared with the whole class.
Perform a poem or song about teaching. Write a poem or perform a song with your friends that you wrote especially for your teacher. We’ve seen teachers brought to tears (in a good way!) through the appreciation shown by an original song written just to say “thank you” to a special teacher.
Plan a party. Put-on a surprise party for your teacher (with the permission of the principal or other senior teacher). Volunteer to be the person who arranges everything.
Jar of treats. We’ve never met a teacher who doesn’t like a jar of lollies or chocolates as a thank you gift for teachers!
Board games. Try to find a fun, educational game that your teacher might also be able to use in the classroom as a teaching aid.
Donations in the teacher's name. It is always rewarding to support a worthwhile cause or organization, such as UNICEF and UNESCO.
There are many good gift ideas for teachers; try to be creative and original. Just think of what your teacher means to you, and the best gift idea for your teacher will naturally follow.