Are you looking for new, thoughtful, and creative appreciation gifts for the teachers in your child’s life? Finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. You want something no one has thought of before that will genuinely express your gratitude. Well, look no further! As a former school teacher and elementary principal, I have your answer. In this article, we have curated a list of four unique and meaningful appreciation gifts for teachers that will make them feel valued and cherished. From personalized FREE thank-you notes to matching picture books, teachers will cherish and use these gifts for years to come.
Each gift idea is designed to show how much you value their hard work and dedication. Teachers play a significant role in shaping the lives of their students, and they deserve to be recognized for their efforts. So, why not go the extra mile and give them a gift that truly reflects your appreciation? Be inspired by our gift ideas and show your gratitude in a memorable and heartfelt way. Get ready to make a lasting impression and let your teachers know just how much they mean to you!
A Little Pot of Love, Joy, and Peace.
I’ll begin with a popular book that each of my teachers incorporated into their Character Education curriculum. The Little Pot is the story of a clay vessel trying to determine why the Potter made it. Teachers use this book to teach students that their creator wants to grow love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control through them. Like the little pot, we value the things we hold and allow those things to become our identity. Just as a teacher is a teacher because she holds that position, she is much more than her job. She is a person who produces the fruit of the Spirit for our children every day. One of my favorite aspects of teaching was the countless opportunities throughout the day where the Holy Spirit could grow His fruit through me.
This book makes a beautiful Teacher Appreciation Gift when paired with a little pot with a strawberry plant and a note that says, “Thank you for helping me grow.”
A Teapot of Service.
The next thoughtful and creative teacher appreciation gift is The Tea Pot book. This makes a great gift for teachers because they pour into our children. Serving them every day with all they have inside. In this book, The Tea Pot learns that it must pour into others what the Potter has made through it. Teachers love sharing this book with their class because it illustrates that we should not be selfish and give others the things we hold.
This book makes a unique Teacher Appreciation Gift paired with a teapot, teacup, and tea bag. Add a note that says, “Thank you for serving and pouring into my life.”
An Appreciation Gift for Teachers that Shines
Your child’s teacher is the light that shines wisdom and knowledge to help them grow. Why not thank them for being that light with The Oil Lamp book? In this story, a little oil lamp must learn to be brave and hold the Potter’s flame. Likewise, it must learn to burn at a rate that is not too bright and offensive to the other vessels. The allegoric message communicates how we can shine, bringing warmth and light to others. Consequently, it is a great way to show gratitude and appreciation for how a teacher shines.
Pairing this book with a scented candle and a thank-you note for being a light in your child’s life makes a thoughtful and creative gift. Thank you for lighting the way and shining new knowledge into my life.”
Support From Burnout
A teacher’s job never ends. After all the students leave, they typically spend another full workday grading papers, cleaning the classroom, and planning for the next day of learning. I have had many different jobs throughout my life, and I can attest that the job of a teacher is by far the hardest. That is why burnout happens to teachers quite often. The fourth book that makes an excellent teacher appreciation gift is Burnout Fit In. In this story, the oil lamp is running out of oil and faces the reality that its light will burn out. The potter gives it the fuel it needs through the other vessels. In the same way, God can refuel your child’s teacher through your love and support.
Another aspect of this book illustrates how we need to feel like we belong and fit in. The vessel the Potter uses to supply oil to the lamp is broken and lost. The Potter shows how it was designed to fit in the top of the lamp and, therefore, was created for a specific task. Even its crack is useful.
This book is a gift that shows gratitude and support. It will be a resource that your child’s teacher can use to teach children how important it is to work together. When we try to do things alone, we risk burnout. Teacher Appreciation Day is a great time to let your child’s teacher know you support them and want to work with them. The thank-you note for this book might read, “Thank you for your support and helping me fit in.”
Appreciation Gifts for Teachers and FREE Thank-You Cards.
Your child’s teacher puts a great deal of effort and creativity into the lessons she prepares each day. Your gift of gratitude should show the same effort and creativity. You can purchase the books at the links below. Enter your first name and email, and we will send you FREE Thank-you notes to put with your gift.
Dawn Stephens