So back to my holiday present plan. In order to be done with gift prep before Thanksgiving, you need to do some heavy planning now. First on your list? Teachers and caregivers.
Two things to consider:
- Some schools and daycare centers have a gift-giving policy where all presents must be under $25. I think this is a nice price point and honestly, you can do it for less. Remember, it's truly the thought that matters.
- Homemade presents, made by you or your child, are such a great way to keep costs down. But as your kids get older, they might not be as interested in helping to make the gifts (or giving homemade gifts. Oh, the awkward years).
- Giving teachers a holiday gift is usually something that happens from preschool through junior high. If they have more than one teacher, the gift goes to the homeroom teacher.
- If your kid's school participates in Scrip for fundraising, gift cards are you friends. Use the holiday shopping as an opportunity to support the school while stocking up on gift cards.
- Whatever you decide to get for your child's teacher, pair it with a nice thank-you note. How many chances do you get to really tell your kid's teacher how much you appreciate the time spent with your child? Even better, let your kid write a note, too.
Photo Credit: David Prince/Sunset.com
Homemade Cocoa in a Jar: I got the idea from Sunset magazine a few years ago and it's now my go-to gift for my sons' teachers (and just about anyone else I can give it to!). I've made all four options -- Mexican Cocoa, Peppermint Stick Cocoa, Mocha Cocoa and Classic Cocoa -- and they are awesome.
If you buy the supplies in bulk, each jar cost less than US$15 to make. I purchased canning jars and ribbon at Target and blank gift cards at a craft store (you could easily use pretty paper you have on hand).
Another idea: create a "movie bag" by pairing the cocoa with a US$5 gift card to Blockbuster and a pack of microwaveable popcorn. This takes the gift up to US$25. Put it all in a cute (recyclable) bag and you're set.
Hat, scarf and mittens set: Most teachers have to spend some time outdoors during the day, whether it's yard duty, lunch period or car line. They'll appreciate a new set of gear to keep them warm. This adorable set is from Target for US$10. You could also find a simple set (read: less color) for more conservative teachers. As for male teachers, a nice rugby-stripe scarf would be perfect (Target, US$15).
Note: Don't forget handmade scarves and hats from the many talented artists that sell their products on Etsy.
Note: Starbucks is one retailer that is on nearly every Scrip card list.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Gift card/certificate to a local bookstore: One of the best things to do over the holidays is to spend a leisurely afternoon browsing titles and flipping through magazines at a local bookstore. Especially when you have a nice gift card to buy your picks. Like coffee shops, I'm all about supporting local independent stores. But Border's is also top notch.
Note: If you do go with your local independent bookstore, many of them have arrangements with their local schools where they donate a percentage of the purchase price to the school you mention. Double check with your kid's school, if they haven't told you about it already.
Custom note cards: Despite the use of e-mail for daily communication, teachers still write thank-you notes the old-fashioned way: on paper. Stationery is always classic gift. But you can have your kids add a personal touch by creating custom note cards with photos they've snapped (with your help, of course). Most photo sites offer this type of option, but I'm a big fan of MOO.com and the company's NoteCards. Very good quality paper and packaging. You can include up to 16 images in one pack of cards, which is fun to do. Prices start at $22.
What are you getting for your kid's teacher this year?
