Whether you want to deliver a gift for an educator in your life, or are looking for inspiration for a “Secret Santa” exchange with a coworker, here are a few ideas to get you started. Choose one or a few to create a thoughtful gift that may add a little extra holiday cheer to the season.
10 Small Gift Ideas for Teachers
Take a look through this small list of ideas and stop by the Teacher Gifts holiday shop to see some of the latest must-haves and fun gifts.
1. Pens and Writing Utensils
Take grading papers and writing Post-it notes to the next level with some nice pens. Having fun colors to use or simply a more comfortable grip is a luxury that many teachers would love to have gifted during the holidays.
2. Teacher’s Desk Accessories
Keeping a desk space organized can be challenging. Having a teacher’s desk space that feels efficient and looks nice can make every day a little more enjoyable for the educators in your life. Check out the trendy teacher’s desk accessories and office supplies for a thoughtful teacher gift.
3. A Journal
Taking notes, writing reminders, planning lessons, and recording inspirational ideas: all of these things are made easier with a go-to journal. Teachers need space to write things down and having a bound journal or planner is a great way to keep all those notes in one place.
4. Stress Relief
Stress relief may look different to every person, but your friend or coworker could use some simple relaxation tools to use throughout a busy week. Try putting together a little kit with some of unique fidgets to use while grading endless papers and some of their favorite healthy snacks. It might make returning to the classroom after a winter break just a little more cheerful.
5. Homemade Goodies
Teachers receive a lot of cookies and other treats during the holiday season, so consider some of the other fun treats that might last a little longer. Are you into making homemade jam? What about a easy-to-make soup mix or two? Get creative and step outside of the usual holiday treat gifts this year.
6. A Good Book
All educators need some time to relax, and many try to set some time aside during a winter break. If the teacher you know loves to read, consider giving them a book to add to their list. They probably have a few lined up for when they have some spare time, but maybe your recommendation will make it near the top.
7. Flowers
Consider giving a plant or flowers to the educator in your life. Adding some more green to the holiday season is a great way to keep the classroom or home smelling fresh, and may also serve as a welcome reminder that winter won’t be here forever.
8. A Hall Pass
Give the gift of time by offering to cover your fellow teacher’s class during your prep one day — she/he will certainly appreciate the gesture.
9. A Travel Mug
Most teachers have a collection of kitschy coffee mugs, but they’re not that useful — especially if you work with rambunctious elementary school students who could top over your hot drink at any moment! A quality travel mug, on the other hand, is a safe alternative that will keep a drink hot all morning long.
10. Gift Cards
When in doubt, head to a specialty shop or a local craft store to get a gift card. During the holiday season, it’s the thought that counts, so don’t hesitate to get the teachers in your life a little much-needed spending money to use towards a project or a day of relaxation.
Need More Educational & Teacher Gift Inspiration?
No matter who is on your list this holiday season, School Specialty’s online store with thousands of high quality educational gifts and classroom tools is a great place to go. Check out the Learning Gifts, Stocking Stuffers, and Teacher Gifts shops to see more options.
