Back to School
Happy Labor Day!
For many families and kids, today is the last day of summer. I hope that you have a great family day planned with fun and relaxation.
If you are going back to school, or even if you have already started, I wanted to remind you about that special someone who has been preparing to spend most of their days and much of their time with you: YOUR TEACHER!
While parents have been counting down the days of summer, teachers have been preparing, decorating, cleaning, and planning for the upcoming school year. A teacher’s job is never done. As a former third grade teacher I know how much work goes in just for this first week. So when you are doing your back to school shopping and picking out the perfect first day outfit, don’t forget a little something to show your teacher how much you appreciate all that they have done and will do this school year.
Any first day gift will demonstrate your family’s gratitude. Handwritten notes or cards are a great way to show your teacher you care. Personalized notepads or teacher-themed office supplies are a great resource for a teacher to write notes and decorate their desk. Since many teachers buy their own classroom supplies a gift of markers, pencils, stickers, or craft supplies are a great option. Just pick up a couple extras when you are back to school shopping. Don’t forget the value of hand sanitizer! That was always a favorite of mine. A large container for the students and some of those fun-scented small ones for the teacher’s desk. If it is an option for you to spend a little more money, gift cards just for the teacher are a great gift. Starbucks and Jamba Juice were always my favorite. Having a day where I could treat myself to a coffee or breakfast that someone else made for me was such a treat!
Here are two examples of gifts I received as a teacher:
This gift was handmade with my name and a great quote. A painted board with stickers for the letters.
You really can’t go wrong with treats and snacks. Little things to power the teacher through the day.
For those of you that like to be crafty and creative with your gifts, here are a few ideas I found on Pinterest.
These sites offer free printables for your gift:
http://happyhomefairy.com/tag/beginning-of-the-year-teacher-gift-idea/
http://lilluna.com/mounds-of-fun-teacher-gift/
http://www.iheartnaptime.net/back-to-school-printable-2/
This post has a great practical list of gift ideas to put your money to good use: http://thriftdee.com/2013/08/teacher-gift-that-they-will-actually-like/
Easy, Easy, Easy ideas:
http://bluefield5.blogspot.com/2012/08/meet-remarkerable-teacher-plus-easy.html
http://cardboardcouture.blogspot.com/2013/08/mrs-whites-want-list.html?spref=fb
I hope that these ideas can get you and your kids excited about starting school!
What are your plans for appreciating your teacher this school year?