There’s a special kind of magic that lives in a teacher’s day—the kind that starts with early morning smiles and ends with sticky hands waving goodbye. Teachers are part educator, part cheerleader, part magician, and always a steady, kind presence in a child’s life. Teacher Appreciation Week is our chance to wrap them in the same warmth they give out every single day.
This week isn’t just about gifts or events—it’s about gratitude. It’s about saying, “We see you, we appreciate you, and we’re so glad you’re here.” When a teacher feels supported, it ripples right into the classroom, lighting up learning in the most beautiful way.
Let’s get creative and thoughtful with our celebration plans! Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, a PTO superstar, or a fellow teacher looking to share some love with colleagues—here’s your toolkit for making this week full of kindness, comfort, and joy.
How Can Families Show Their Appreciation to Teachers in a Meaningful Way?
Small gestures can go a long way in making teachers feel valued. A heartfelt note from a student or parent, a drawing, or even just a warm “thank you” at pick-up can brighten a teacher’s whole week. When it comes from the heart, it matters more than anything bought in a store.
What Are Some Budget-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week?
Celebrating doesn’t need to be expensive to be impactful. Coordinating a “thank you wall” in the hallway, hosting a snack table with homemade goodies, or creating a class gratitude book are all thoughtful and meaningful. It’s truly the love behind the gesture that makes it shine.
Why Is Teacher Appreciation Week So Important?
Teachers pour their hearts into shaping young minds every single day. Recognizing their work helps them feel seen, supported, and reminded that what they do really matters. A little appreciation goes a long way in filling a teacher’s cup back up. Be the light in their life that they are everyday in our children’s lives!
Personalized Gifts
Adding a personal touch to a gift shows thoughtfulness and effort
Teacher Tote
Teachers carry a lot! From their books, papers, supplies and other personal items needed, a sturdy tote bag with a cute design is something they all need.
Engraved Pens
A high-quality pen with their name or initials makes grading papers feel a little more special.
Personalized Notepad or Stationery
A set of custom notepads or sticky notes with their name adds a unique touch to their classroom essentials.
Everyday Items
Every teacher needing one of these! We know what it’s like to always be on the move so let’s make their days easier and happier with a good everyday item to keep going.
Hydro Jug Traveler- 40oz
Hydro Jugs are an awesome pick for our busy teachers to grab and run. Their lids are leak resistant and gives them a straw with the ability to be put into their bag without spilling.
20oz Owala Stainless Steel Coffee Tumbler
For our coffee and tea loving teachers, grab them an Owala stainless steel coffee tumbler. This is the perfect running out the door with their happiness in a cup kind of gift.
24oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle
@mrsdoyles.magnificentclassroom
Are your teachers carrying their coffee and tea to class? There are so many different styles of water bottles to choose from and a 24 oz Owala is another great option.
Teaching Glass Cup with Lid, Straw & Brush
These glass cups have become so popular and what a cute design specifically for teachers! “1 Awesome Teacher” totally fits all the work they put in.
Reusable Cotton Totes Bag
A tote bag is not only helpful when running to the stores but running into or out of class. This would also be a cute idea to throw other appreciation gifts into instead of using a gift bag.
Classroom Supplies
Many teachers use their own funds to stock their classrooms, so practical supplies are always appreciated! Make them fun and extra cute to go along with the theme of their classroom.
Gift Cards
Consider gift cards to stores like Walmart, Amazon, or Target, allowing them to choose what they need. We all know how much our teachers pour back into their classroom!
Dry Erase Markers
Expo markers are a LIFE SAVER! Whether it’s for their personal use or in case a student is needing to barrow one. Having these on hand will be a great benefit.
Colorful Pens
Colorful pens rock. They can use these on a cute planner (check out the one below) or to grade papers. I know I love a cute pen to get my work done!
Teachers Planner
This planner with stickers is ADORABLE! #TeacherLife is a busy life. What better way to show appreciation than helping them stay organized?
Welcome Sign for Classroom Door
I loved this sign for some additional decoration. Check out their classroom theme and see if this (or a different one) matches their theme. A good decor is something they can bring around for years.
Teacher Appreciation Table Centerpieces
Add some fun to their desk and areas around the classroom with some classic teacher decor. These bright and fun colors will bring that extra magic to their day.
You Make the Whole Class Shimmer Tapestry Wall Banner
If they have the disco theme with some smileys or pinks around the room, this banner will be a great addition to their classroom library, circle center or even behind their desk.
Colorful Stamps
Here is a set of colorful stamps the class will love seeing on their graded papers. Your teachers will love being able to spread that joy and even bring fun to their grading time too.
Silicone Beaded Lanyard with Keychain
Every teacher is rocking their ID which is always needing a cute lanyard to pair with it! Grab this simple yet VERY teacher-y one to show your appreciation to their role.
Teacher Name Pencil Holder
A pencil holder for desk organization is a must! Check out one similar to grab your awesome teacher here!
Relaxation Gifts
We know the mental and physical load that comes into being a teacher. Help your teacher unwind after a long day with these thoughtful gifts!
Spa Gift Set
A collection of bath bombs, lotions, or candles can provide much-needed relaxation. Although skin care can be tricky, skin tools are always fun for others to try out.
Tea or Coffee Samplers
Pair this with a cute mug for a cozy, thoughtful gift. A tea during the day or after a long day of hard work may be just what they need to unwind.
Books or Audiobooks
If you know their reading preferences, gifting them a great book is always a win. Don’t be afraid to ask so you can ensure you grab their favorite.
Foodie Favorites
Treats and edible gifts are universally loved. Who doesn’t enjoy a pick me up snack or a treat during the day? That’y my kind of appreciation!
Gourmet Chocolates or Cookies
A box of high-quality sweets is a delightful indulgence. They can grab a sweet treat at the end of the day or take them home to grab for dessert.
Gift Cards to Local Cafés
Teachers often enjoy a pick-me-up during the day. See if you can grab one where they open early enough to grab that drink before school. Remember- teachers are people too. They enjoy some relaxing on the weekend!
Homemade Goodies
If you bake, consider gifting a jar of cookies, brownies, or a holiday bread. If you are a lover of baking items and can put that extra love and time into it, I just know they’ll feel so thought of!
Group Gifts
Collaborate with other parents to create a larger, more meaningful gift. This gives a larger budget as well as a team effort. What a neat surprise any of these would be!
Classroom Wish List Fulfillment
Ask the teacher for their wish list and pool funds to check off a few items. An amazon wish list is a great idea to have them start so throughout the year everyone has ideas.
Experience Gifts
Purchase tickets to a local event, museum, or show they might enjoy. Are they a big fan of something? See what’s going on in your area that they may enjoy!
High-End Gift Card
A larger gift card to a favorite restaurant or store can feel extra special. With what you’d spend on a gift individually, this would give a larger item needed that they can choose or a nice time out.
Coffee and Snack Station
Surprise your teachers with a station full of treats, snacks and coffee. You can reach out to other parents in the class or even the school administration to donate or all pitch in for a morning/afternoon set up.
Handwritten Notes
Sometimes, the most memorable gifts cost nothing at all. Not every gift to show appreciation needs a high budget, let alone a budget at all. Work on some sweet notes with your kids throughout the week.
Thank-You Notes
A heartfelt card from you and your child expressing appreciation can mean the world to a teacher. You can set a theme for every day and have your kids take one each day. For example: Draw a picture and write why that picture makes you think of your teacher or think of a word that describes your teacher. Write a short story using this word and their name.
Student Letters
Collect notes from the entire class and compile them into a booklet. You can have these laminated for your child’s teacher to keep for years to come! You may even be able to turn these into a hard cover book.
Tips to Keep in Mind
Avoid Overly Personal Gifts
Items like perfumes, clothing, or jewelry can be tricky unless you know the teacher well. If you go this route, I’d ask about allergies to any scents, fruits, etc.
Keep Dietary Restrictions in Mind
If gifting food, ensure it aligns with any known allergies or preferences. (Vegan items, gluten free, food allergens, etc.)
Check School Policies
Some schools have rules about the types of gifts teachers can accept. Follow up with school admin for all the important details.
At the heart of every school is a teacher quietly doing the work of a hundred hearts. This week, let’s wrap them in celebration, kindness, and appreciation for all the joy they bring to our children’s lives.
Whether it’s a homemade cookie, a note scribbled in crayon, or a warm smile in the hallway, it all adds up. Every gesture is a way to say: “You matter. You’re loved. And we’re so thankful for you.”
Let’s make Teacher Appreciation Week the bright, joy-filled rainbow it was meant to be.
Two Jersey Moms, a pediatric occupational therapist & elementary school teacher, providing fun and simple activities to get your little ones learning through play.