Teacher Survival Kit
Last year, we made our son's teacher a "Survival Kit" and it was such a hit with her that we are doing it again this year. Basically, it's a gift basket filled with goodies − some are practical, some are sweet, and some are silly − with an explanation of what each one means. Use our list or make one of your own and attach a note or sticker to each item.
- 100 Grand Candy Bar: "You are worth at least this much to us."
- Aspirin: "If necessary, take two and a ten-minute break."
- Band-Aid: "For when things get a little rough."
- Crayons: "To make each day bright and cheerful."
- Googly Eyes: "To help you keep an eye on all those kids."
- Gum: "To help you stick with it."
- Hershey's Hugs: "Because they make everything worthwhile."
- Marbles: "To replace the ones you may lose from time to time."
- Paper clips: "For when you need help holding things together."
- Puzzle Pieces: "Because you're a big piece of my child's life."
- Snowflake: "When all else fails, pray for a snow day!"
- Sponge: "To soak up the overflow when your brain is too full."
- Starburst: "For a burst of energy when you need it."
- Tissues: "For drying tears ... yours or someone else's."
There is a coffee shop less than half a mile from our school, and our teachers love getting gift cards to use there. They can get a sweet treat or pick-me-up when they need it.
Clean Out Your Home Office
Perhaps you have boxes of letterhead paper from when your company changed its logo, or more paper clips than you know what to do with. Teachers often spend their own money to buy classroom supplies, especially with tightening budgets. Replenish their supplies whenever possible, or give a gift card to a teacher supply or office supply store.
Clean Out Your Craft Drawers
Too many googly eyes? Reams of construction paper? Stickers and tattoos galore? Your child's teacher may be interested in using these items for classroom projects or incentives for the students.
A Group Gift
If many families pitch in, you can purchase a really nice present. Consider a spa package for a pampering day or a variety of gift cards (restaurant, movie, book store) for a special day out with his or her significant other.
Nominate Him or Her for an Award
The Douglas County Educational Foundation (DCEF) has an MVP Award on their homepage. Click "Submit Nomination" and fill out a simple form to nominate a teacher. And stay tuned to Macaroni Kid Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock, as we will have another Teacher of the Season award in the fall.
Sincere Appreciation
Unfortunately, teachers often get much of the blame but very little of the credit. A heartfelt letter of thanks will be appreciated more than you may realize. Be sure to give a copy to the school's principal and assistant principal too (and maybe even send one to the superintendent).
