It’s that time of year again when parents start stressing over the perfect gift for their children’s teachers. You might find yourself asking friends or scrolling through social media for ideas, but let me tell you, many of those suggestions can be pretty misguided. As someone who has spent time in the classroom and has friends who are teachers, I can confidently say that there are some gifts that are just plain bad. While teachers are grateful for any gesture, deep down, what they really want is a gift card.
Here’s a rundown of what your kid’s teacher definitely doesn’t want this holiday season and why gift cards reign supreme.
Candles
Seriously, how many candles can one person light? While they can be nice, not everyone enjoys scents like evergreen or those bizarre combinations like strawberry-chocolate. Picking the right candle is as tricky as choosing jewelry. Unless you know their absolute favorite, it’s best to skip the candle aisle. Trust me, your child’s teacher probably has a shelf full of unused candles already!
Body Products
Much like candles, body products can be a total miss. Everyone has their preferred brands and scents, and many deal with allergies or sensitivities. Just like candles, these gifts often end up collecting dust.
MLM Products
Please don’t use your child’s teacher as a target for your multi-level marketing schemes. They don’t want your green capsules, weight loss shakes, or essential oils, especially with a business card thrown in. It’s just awkward.
Homemade Treats
Let’s be real: no one wants to nibble on snacks from someone they barely know. With concerns about hygiene—especially post-COVID—homemade goodies are a gamble. You never know if the baker’s cat was frolicking on the countertop or if they washed their hands after using the bathroom.
Apple-Themed Gifts
Sure, apples are cute, but they won’t bring joy to your child’s teacher. Forget apple-themed mugs or earrings; they’re probably not their thing.
Home Décor
I once received fragile items like candles and mirrors that were impossible to transport. Teachers often have their own style, and home should be a sanctuary away from work. If you’re not sure they’ll like something, don’t go there.
Now, I know some might argue, “It’s the thought that matters.” And while that’s true to an extent, if you’re spending money, make sure it’s something the teacher will appreciate. Teachers often dip into their own pockets for classroom supplies, so a gift card allows them to either treat themselves or buy what they need for their students.
Instead of splurging on a questionable gift, why not have your child write a heartfelt note about what they’ve learned and what they appreciate? This means so much more than a generic gift. One of my teacher friends mentioned that she wouldn’t mind a nice set of pens, as schools often supply the cheapest ones.
I understand that some parents find gift cards impersonal, but they are incredibly practical. Before you start baking cookies or hunting for a personalized gift, consider opting for the humble gift card this holiday season.
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Summary
This holiday season, skip the candles, body products, and homemade treats when thinking about gifts for your child’s teacher. Instead, consider a gift card or a heartfelt note from your child. Practical gifts that teachers can use are much more appreciated than random trinkets. And for those looking to start a family, check out resources like Make a Mom for helpful information.
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