Need teacher gift ideas?Here are the best teacher gift ideas chosen by teachers.
If you’re looking for the perfect teacher gift ideas for the holidays or when school starts back up after winter break, you’ve come to the right place. All of these gift ideas were submitted by real teachers, so we know what teachers really want and need.
Check out our guide to the best teacher gifts, written by real teachers.
1. Students will be asked if they would like to donate $1 or more each as a gift for the teacher’s own use or for classroom supplies.
Need more teacher gift ideas? Here are some of the most requested gift cards to consider.
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2. A handwritten card that you can look back on is one of the best gifts for teachers.
Teachers across the country agree that handwritten thank you cards from students and parents are some of the most treasured gifts they keep over the years. These heartfelt notes will provide encouragement on difficult days, making them one of the most meaningful gifts you can give a teacher. ❤️
“Teacher, here it is! Let’s have your child write a nice card. I save all the messages I’ve ever received from my students. I call it the ‘happy file’ and it’s great for bad days. I try to keep an eye on it. ” – Emily, Hip Leader and Teacher
“Gift cards are always nice, but handmade cards from students are always appreciated. I keep all the cards, notes, and photos I receive from my students in a box in my classroom. It’s a great memory of the times.” – Bailee, Hip Leader and Teacher.
“For those who don’t have a small or no budget for teacher gifts, I can honestly say that sincere gratitude, especially if you can be specific about what your teacher has done for you, is more important than any gift. ” – Ann, Hip Leader and Teacher.
3. A hot meal delivered for lunch, or something you can save for later since you rarely eat lunch out.
It’s not often that teachers have the opportunity to enjoy a hot meal at their favorite place. A gift card or lunch delivery is a thoughtful and highly appreciated gift. Be sure to check out the other person’s favorite foods and dietary preferences to make sure your gesture is on point.
“Where we live, we have women who prepare healthy meals for us.We had teachers choose the meals they wanted their families to eat and it was delivered to the school. I just took it home and baked it in the oven and they loved it.” – Stacey, Hip Leader and Teacher.
4. Treat your favorite teacher to a homemade snack.
Treat your favorite teacher to one of these delicious recipes.
It is a good idea to check with your instructor in advance about any dietary restrictions or allergies.
“I have a student right now who dips Oreos in chocolate and sprinkles them on and brings them to me every holiday! It’s so delicious and a great snack to get him through the school day. Become!” – Ashley, Hip Leader and Teacher
5. A gift basket filled with goodies is one of the most requested gift ideas for teachers.
While popcorn is not a specific item that teachers request, many teachers said they really liked a thoughtful gift basket filled with treats and foods they really liked. To create your popcorn gift basket ideas, all you need is your favorite collapsible silicone popcorn maker, some kernels, a drink, and a little note to tie your vision together. You can also add some fun popcorn seasoning. 🤩
Why not give the gift of a s’mores basket, perfect for fall?
“Include s’mores items, retractable roasting forks, flame colors, s’mores-themed towels, and more with your card. “Let’s make the holidays ‘more’ than ever!” – Sarah, hip leader
6. Give a group of teachers an affordable mirror with a cute cardstock note on it.
All you need for this gift is the purchase of a compact mirror set and a sweet note from your child to pair with each mirror set. The fruity mirror pictured above is currently sold out, but the pack above will cost less than $1 per teacher.
Here are some nifty ideas for cards to give at the beginning of the new school year. “You make our class shine brighter than Christmas lights!” “May your holidays be fun, bright, and full of good memories!” “Reflect the wonderful teacher you are!” It’s a mirror!” Have an unforgettable vacation. ” “Every time you look in this mirror, remember that you are an inspiration to us all. Have a wonderful holiday.” “This mirror reminds me that I am more than just a teacher. You are a shining example! Have a great holiday! “A mirror that reminds me of my greatness every day. Now, a great break!” “Look into this mirror and make a difference in the world!” Look at me, thank you for shining a light on me!” “Thank you for making me shine again this year! See you in 2025!”
7. Fun gift ideas for teachers include beautiful plants to keep in the classroom or take home.
Our amazing teachers help our children grow every day. Showing your appreciation for what’s grown among living plants will be a constant reminder of your and your child’s gratitude. Additionally, purchasing large packs of succulents makes them very affordable gifts to give to multiple teachers.
Here are some nifty ideas for cards to give at the beginning of the new school year. “Thank you for letting me grow for a year!” “You have sown seeds of knowledge that will last a lifetime.” “May your holidays be joyful, bright and full of new growth!” “Flowers “Thank you for making me bloom. Have a happy holiday season.” “Because of you, I have grown wiser and kinder. Have a nice holiday!” “Your care is important to this little plant. It makes us stronger!” “Thank you, teacher, for being so nurturing. Have a nice holiday!” “You’ve helped me grow this year. I hope it’s a season full of joy and growth!” “Just like this plant, I have grown so much because of you!” “You have planted so much love and learning in our hearts. Thank you!”
8. Personalized classroom items make thoughtful and cool teacher gifts.
One of our Hip readers, Kelly, created this adorable custom whiteboard eraser gift that is a hit every year. We think these highly rated personalized erasers will look super cute and bright in your classroom. And it’s something that all teachers use throughout the school year.
9. It’s also a great idea to stock teachers’ classrooms with classroom essentials and school supplies.
One of the best gift ideas for teachers is donating classroom supplies that can be used throughout the year. Many teachers report spending large sums of money to stock their classrooms. Walmart is a great place to find many items priced under $1. You can also get the 6 cup holder caddy pictured from Dollar Tree and fill it with goodies.
As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to check directly with the teacher to find out what supplies are most needed. Even if you have enough inventory now, you will need more supply as the year goes on.
Here are some affordable supplies you can gift to teachers any time of the year.
10. Flare Pens and Flare Pens Only.
If you don’t know your teacher’s love language, use a flare pen, just a flare pen. Pair a pack of Paper Mate Flair pens with a thoughtful card for an affordable and thoughtful gift that’s sure to be appreciated.
BONUS: Still can’t decide? Try our DIY drink holder gift with a combination of gift ideas…
Give your teacher a thoughtful holiday gift with a customizable drink holder filled with gift cards, candles, plants, coffee, and other goodies.
Check out all of our free teacher printables that you can use all year long.
