Teacher Gifts That Make the Grade

Wondering what to get your child’s teacher as an end-of-the-year thank-you gift? If you’re thinking about anything with apples or #1 teacher on it, walk quickly to the next aisle. Those teacher-themed gifts are way overdone. Instead find a gift that’s thoughtful, and one they’ll enjoy. Need some help? Here’s a quick lesson on gifts they’ll love.

Gift Cards

You can never go wrong with a gift card. Whether it’s for a favorite restaurant or for a retail store, it’s a gift teachers really appreciate and like getting the most. It’s also one that, depending on what it’s for (movie theater, dinner, etc.), spouses and children also get to enjoy.

Grant a Wish

If your child’s teacher has a classroom “wish list”, filling one of those wishes also makes a great gift. Many times teachers pay for supplies out of pocket and having someone else help out means a lot, even though it may seem like a boring gift to you.

Gift Basket

Find out what her hobbies are and create a gift basket. If you know she loves the beach, have a bag custom-monogrammed and fill it with a beach towel, sunscreen, flip flops, a good book and more. Or get a popcorn bowl and add a movie rental gift card, popcorn, soft drinks and candy for a movie night at home.

Spa Day or Sporting Tickets

Show your appreciation for all their hard work and dedication with a little indulgence. Treat her to a day at the spa or at least a manicure and pedicure. For the guys, tickets to a sporting event are always welcome. Or go in with some other parents and treat the teacher to a night at a bed and breakfast.

A Mother’s Day Made for You

This Mother’s Day, treat yourself.

Plan a relaxing day or indulge by buying those shoes you’ve been eyeing. If you don’t have the time or are too tired to even think about pampering yourself, don’t worry. We have some great ideas that will make this Mother’s Day memorable.

Maid in heaven – Does your perfect day include a spotless house? Then hire a maid for the day (or the day before) and enjoy a pristine house without lifting a finger.

Forget the spa - Not every mom has the luxury of a day off. Instead, get a 30-minute or one-hour massage and be amazed at the difference it will make.

Big screen romance – Sneak away to the movie theater by yourself or with another mom and enjoy a chick flick. Movies currently out include “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past” with Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Garner or “Confessions of a Shopaholic” with Isla Fisher (at value theaters).

Retail therapy – Enjoy a blissful afternoon spent wandering the mall completely alone. Shop in peace without having to pick up clothes pulled off hangers by little hands or stopping every other store for a snack. You can even try on clothes in the dressing room!Dine in – No cooking allowed! Have dinner delivered or have your husband and kids pick up take out. Then enjoy a fabulous meal at home, followed by a bubble bath with candlelight, music and a good book.