This is the first year my kids are in school; therefore, it is the first time I have had to get holiday gifts for their teachers. They do so much for my children, and I want to get them something they actually want!

We reached out to the teachers in our community, asking them what they like to receive from families during the holiday season. This is what they said:

Gift cards/cash

The teaching profession is known for its low pay. The overwhelming consensus from our community is that gift cards and cash are the way to go!

"Affording bills and groceries is difficult for teachers!"

"Coffee gift cards!"

"A gift card you can't spend on classroom stuff- like a spa-type one or food!"

"Self-care gift cards!"

A heartfelt card

Teachers often put their heart and soul into their work with our children. Sometimes they want a simple thank you from the heart. Make it personal! If your child isn't writing yet, have them dictate as you write, and then they can decorate it. It also means a lot to a teacher if the parents/caregivers also write sincere note of thanks.

"A HEARTFELT card! Truly the best gift. I have kept them all."

"A note of appreciation!"

"A genuinely heartfelt letter by the student."

Other notable mentions:

• Plants
• Wine (if they drink alcohol) 
• A nice water bottle 
• Stationary or a nice pen 
• Blanket

"Nothing is better than a good pen!"

A few things made the 'no' list from our teachers:

• Mugs
• Candles
• Body care sets
• Alcohol (made the list twice!)

"Not mugs. Not candles. Not body care sets. We get so many of those."

"Please, no mugs."

"Not alcohol! I am always gifted wine which I don't drink!"

Some other ideas:

• Order lunch or breakfast to the classroom on the last week of school
• Record your child talking about what they love about their teacher and email it

Thank you, teachers, for all you do! If you'd like to add something to this list, comment below!