As the school year draws to a close, many parents scramble to find the perfect thank-you gift for their child's teacher. But according to a former educator, some well-intentioned presents end up being more of a burden than a blessing.
The 3 Gifts Teachers Dread Receiving
Having spent years in the classroom, this experienced teacher reveals the three types of gifts that often miss the mark:
- Personalised items: While monogrammed mugs or engraved pens might seem thoughtful, most teachers receive multiple versions of the same item each year.
- Overly sweet treats: Chocolate boxes and baked goods, while delicious, often go to waste as teachers receive more than they can possibly consume.
- Generic stationery: Contrary to popular belief, most teachers don't actually need more pens, notepads or sticky notes.
What Teachers Really Appreciate
Instead of these common but impractical gifts, the former educator suggests these meaningful alternatives:
- Handwritten notes: A sincere thank-you card with specific examples of how the teacher made a difference.
- Classroom supplies: Ask the teacher what materials they actually need for next year's students.
- Gift cards: For bookshops, educational suppliers or even local cafés allow teachers to choose something they'll truly use.
The teacher revealed they kept every heartfelt note from students throughout their entire career, proving that sometimes the simplest gestures mean the most.
