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There are always many people to get presents for during the holiday season – from the kids and grandparents to your neighbors and co-workers. But don’t overlook one of the most worthy recipients who deserves a spot on your gift list: your child’s teacher, whom you’ve entrusted to educate your offspring (quite the challenging job, most parents would admit). Which begs the question: What should you buy for that beloved instructor? “Teachers spend almost as much time with your child during the school year as you do – multiply that by 25 kids, and you start to see how much they give,” said Steve Au, an entrepreneur in the gifting space and dad of two elementary school children.
“A holiday gift is a small way to thank them for their dedication.” Jennifer Porter, a manners expert and Sunday school teacher, agrees. “Gifting teachers with presents is a signal to hard-working teachers that you acknowledge and appreciate their efforts,” she said.
Of course, navigating school rules regarding giving presents can get complicated; some schools may frown on this practice among kids and families or have limits. Check first with your school administration on what’s allowed. Additionally, ask yourself: If you give a present to one teacher, are you obligated to present a gift to others? After all, your son or daughter likely has multiple educators across different subjects.
“I believe that a gift can best be given to your child’s main teacher or homeroom teacher. I don’t think every teacher should necessarily receive a gift,” said Uneaka Daniels, a 33-year teacher. “I also believe the student should give the gift to the teacher, not the parent.
For example, it can be given at the end of the day before school ends for the holiday.” Ask Brian Davis, an etiquette consultant, and he’ll tell you that if you give one teacher a gift, you should probably consider gifting your child’s other instructors in a small way. “But if it becomes difficult purchasing something for every individual tutor on your list, you can limit yourself to those who have contributed immensely to molding the character of your son or daughter,” Davis said, who adds that holiday gift-giving should probably only be practiced at the preschool/kindergarten/primary/middle-school level, not if your child is in high school or beyond.
He also concurs that your child should bestow the gift, preferably after class ends during the final day or week of school before the holiday break. “The best way to give a teacher a holiday gift is to have your child hand it to them directly," Au said. "This makes it clear who the gift is from and encourages your child to take an active role in the gesture.
" As far as gifts to consider, ponder these teacher-friendly presents, the experts recommend: Give a handwritten card if you are in doubt or on a tight budget. “Even though it may seem small when taken alone, a sincere handwritten message from you and/or your student will definitely mean a lot,” Davis said. Avoid buying the teacher clothes, perfumes, jewelry or any intimate or personal present.
“Also, high-cost or extravagant gifts could make a teacher feel uneasy because they might feel pressured into reciprocity; also, school policy may limit the value of presents given,” Davis said. “Additionally, homemade food items, although thoughtful, may not be ideal due to dietary restrictions, allergies and the like.”.
