When it comes to choosing gifts for teachers, there’s a lot to think about. You want to give them something useful yet heartfelt – and you definitely don’t want to add to their growing pile of apple-shaped ornaments and paperweights. So how can you show your appreciation without getting something that will just collect dust in their closet? Here are 10 great ideas that any teacher will love.

1. Handwritten thank-you note 

One of the best inexpensive teacher gift ideas also happens to be something that every teacher treasures: a handwritten thank-you note. Whether it comes from a student, their parents, or both, many teachers say they’d take a heartfelt note over a gift any day – and many save them in a box and pull them out from time to time when they need encouragement or want to reminisce. This gift is useful in the best way!

2. Air purifying plant 

We’ve all spent more time indoors in the last few years than we’d like, so why not bring some of the outdoors in with a plant? Of course, it shouldn’t just be any plant – choose a variety that can help purify the air and place it in a gorgeous decorative pot. Whether the teacher brings it home for a sense of calm or leaves it in the classroom to keep it feeling fresh and teach students about the responsibility of watering it, it’s hard to go wrong with this gift.

3. Self-care kit 

Teaching is stressful, so consider a gift that is focused on self-care. Whether it’s a luxury bath set, a soothing candle, or cosy slippers, pretty much anything related to relaxation will be gratefully received and enjoyed.

4. Personalised bookmark 

If you’re looking for small gifts for teachers, it’s hard to go wrong with personalised bookmarks. Teachers refer to multiple books throughout the day and many also read for leisure, so they can really never have too many bookmarks – especially ones with a personal meaning behind them.

5. Gift card 

One thing that teachers always cite as a most-appreciated gift is a gift card. Whether it’s for a favourite shop, a restaurant, or salon services, it’s hard to go wrong with this thoughtful gift that allows them to choose exactly what they want. 

6. Hand creams

If you’re anything like me, there was a time during the height of the pandemic when your hands were chapped, cracked and downright awful. For teachers, this is a constant battle, pandemic or not, as all that hand washing and sanitising they do throughout the day can really take a toll on their hands. A nice hand cream is a gift that they’re sure to use and appreciate.

7. Water bottles 

Yes, your child’s teacher probably already has a water bottle, but hear me out. You can never have too many water bottles, and different ones are suited to different occasions. These days, you can find lots of attractive options that are free of harmful chemicals like BPA, and some have neat features like time markers and fruit infusers. You could even go the extra mile and have it personalised.

8. Box of chocolates 

A box of chocolates is a classic gift for a reason. Most people love chocolates, and an extra-special box is always appreciated. Edible gifts are always a win in my books!

9. Custom recipe box 

A custom recipe box is a great group gift from the whole class. Give each student an index card and have them (or their parents) write down their favourite recipe on it. Then buy a cute recipe box, place the cards inside, and you’ve got one of the most personalised gifts for teachers imaginable!

10. Lap desk 

Teachers often bring their work home, but that shouldn’t mean they have to be stuck at yet another desk outside of the classroom. A lap desk with a beautifully patterned pillow on the bottom means they can work comfortably from the sofa or their bed as they grade papers or work on lesson plans in the evening or at the weekend.

Gifts for teachers can be tricky to choose, but these ideas should provide plenty of inspiration. What will you give your kids’ teachers this year?