Great Gifts for Educators

As Michael Bublé, Pentatonix and Nat King Cole begin to flood the radio stations I am reminded Christmas break is just around the corner. If you are like me, it becomes harder and harder each year to find the perfect present for our loved ones. When my children were younger, Santa knew just what to get: a new board game, books, puzzles and their one special request. Now that they are older, Christmas shopping is much less enjoyable. Quite frankly, it’s more pricey and just downright hard.

You may experience this frustration when it comes to buying a Christmas gift for your child’s teacher. After many years of deciding on the perfect gift for my girls’ teachers, I am here to offer you some advice this Christmas season.

1.  Say “Thank you.”

It is easy to forget the influence a teacher has on your child’s life. Our teachers work hard to give your child, and all of their students, a quality education. Writing a thank you note is a wonderful way to show your child’s teacher you appreciate him/her. Use this as an opportunity to teach your child how to thank others.

2.            Chocolate

You’ve seen the Snickers commercial. Enough said.  

3.            Volunteer

It is no secret students perform better and learn more when teachers and parents/guardians work together. Offer to volunteer in the classroom or at after-school activities. However, supporting your teacher begins at home. Be sure to set aside time each day with your child to read, do homework, ask about their day and play.

4.            Ask about your child’s performance

Teachers love seeing how much you care. Knowing your child’s academic and behavioral performance is essential. Ask for recommendations on what you and your student can work on over Christmas break.

And you guessed it…

5.            Gift cards

This is my go-to gift when I am unsure of a teacher’s preferences. Gift cards are a great opportunity to support our community’s restaurants and stores. Here’s a hint: I know many of our teachers now run on Dunkin’.

Finding the perfect gift is difficult-- appreciating a teacher is not.

Take my advice if you are looking for a way to show your gratitude to the people who do so much for your child.

Merry Christmas to the Williamstown Independent Schools family!