How is it possible that we are nearing the end of the school year? Wasn’t it Christmas like, yesterday?! The 2020-2021 school year has been both the longest and shortest I think I’ve ever experienced. And if ever there was a time to go big for those end-of-the-year gifts, IT IS NOW.
Let me tell you, this is not the time to give sweet Mrs. Smith a crayon wreath for her classroom door. Oh, I’m sure she’d appreciate it and love it and cherish it for years, but these teachers have been put through the wringer. They’re balancing distance learning with in-person instruction. They’re showing grace for unfinished work while also trying to appease their district officials by hitting all the skills they’re being pressured to accomplish.
I’ve compiled a list of items sure to bring a smile (and relief!) to your child’s teacher!
- Target Gift Card – They can get practically anything they need! School supplies, clothes, groceries, or maybe even splurge on some self-care items!
- Gift Cards for Prepared Meals – There’s a great small business near me that preps slow cooker meals. All you have to do is add in the protein! This is ideal for a busy teacher, especially a busy teacher that has not only been juggling their classroom’s work but their personal child’s work as well! All they have to do is toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and bam! dinner’s done.
- Gift Cards to Restaurants – What’s better than not having to worry about what’s for dinner? Not having to cook.
Now, I know some of you may be thinking: “Yeah, this is great and all, but we’re running on a very tight budget.” Don’t worry, I’ve saved the best for last.
4. Your Appreciation – Teaching is a notoriously thankless job. Teachers don’t get paid nearly enough and they spend countless hours doing extra work that no one sees. They spend their weekends grading papers and entering grades. They stay up late searching for interventions to help with students’ varying needs. Think about how you feel as a mom–isn’t it nice when your husband or your kids say “Thank you” without being prompted? Doesn’t that encouragement fill up your cup and keep you going?
We ALL like to hear that the work we’re doing is seen, valued, and appreciated. Your kind words may be the affirmation that keeps them going this summer and helps them muster energy when school starts again in the fall.
