10 Teachers' Gift Ideas

If you're trying to figure out what to buy for a teacher, here are 10 teachers' gift ideas for the teachers in your life, or in your kids' lives. When buying a gift for a teacher, you could get something useful, or something that's a bit of an indulgence. No matter which way you go, remember that your goal is to show your appreciation, not embarrass the teacher. Keep their personality in mind when you're shopping.

1. Amazon gift card. Although Amazon started off selling books, now you can buy electronics, books, collectibles, and many other treats in the Amazon marketplace. When you give the teacher a gift card, they can pick out exactly what they need.
2. Homemade cookies. If you have several kids and want a cheap way to thank all of their teachers, bake up a huge batch of cookies. Then put them in decorative containers that the teacher can re-use. Deliver a container to each teacher.
3. High end pen set. Most teachers spend a lot of time grading papers, and they appreciate the art of writing. A beautiful writing set is a gift they will treasure.
4. Starbucks gift card. Since most teachers work a lot of hours, they tend to drink a lot of coffee.  A Starbucks gift car allows them to fill up on coffee as often as they need it.
5. iTunes gift card. This gift allows your teacher to pick out their favorite songs they want to download. The bonus for you is that you can pick up these gift cards at many grocery stores, so you don't waste time shopping.
6. Gloves and scarf set. This gift keeps the teacher warm during the winter, without worrying about the specific size the teacher wears. Pick a neutral color or pattern that they can wear regularly.
7. Paperweight. A festive holiday paperweight helps a teacher organize the papers on their desk. Even better is a paperweight that you picked up during your travels.
8. Stationary. Order some personalized cards with the teacher's initials on high quality paper. This is a timeless gift that the teacher will appreciate for years to come whenever they need to send a note to someone.
9. Wine. A great bottle of wine is a nice gift for a teacher. Even if the teacher doesn't want to drink it, it's easy for them to re-gift to someone else!
10. Antibacterial lotion. Most teachers encounter a lot of people and a lot of paper. Antibacterial lotion moisturize their hands while helping to fight germs.

No matter what gift you pick out for the teacher in your life, make sure you wrap it in beautiful packaging and write a heartfelt thank you note. A teacher wants to know that they are appreciated and that they have made a positive difference in the student's life. The gift is not as important as the thought behind the gift. Take the time to include a heartfelt handwritten note with your gift, and the teacher receiving it will appreciate your efforts.