Cheap Ways to Show Your Kids’ Teachers You Appreciate Them

Most of us can agree that teachers are underappreciated. They play such an important part in the lives of our children, and we often don’t take the time to thank them. Expressions of gratitude to a teacher don’t need to be elaborate or expensive. In fact, most teachers will love simple gestures that come from the heart.

About 99% of people say the gift of flowers is thoughtful. Items that are made with love or chosen with warm thoughts are the best ways to convey appreciation to teachers. Read on for a list of cheap ways to show your kids’ teachers you appreciate them.

1. Artwork

In 2020, the global art market had a U.S. dollar value of approximately $50 billion. And any adult who’s ever received an art piece from a child knows it’s priceless! Teachers love the fact that kids took the time to create a one-of-a-kind painting, drawing, or paper flower display. It’s simple and will show a teacher how much you appreciate them.

2. Bragging to Their Boss

Another great way to show a teacher they’re appreciated is to send a positive email to the principal about them. Mention specific acts of kindness and ways that they’ve helped your child. It’s not only a sweet gesture but something that can help their career in the long run. The note may be placed in their file or used in an evaluation. It can even help them get tenure, a raise, or even a promotion.

3. Classroom Supplies With a “Thank You” Note

Teachers are always in need of classroom supplies. Sadly, they often need to buy supplies themselves. Sending in a box of classroom goodies will definitely mean the world to them. Take a trip to the dollar store and pick up things like wipes, tissues, pencils, baskets, and other needed items. While you’re at it, grab a note card and tell them how much you appreciate their work, adding it to the top of the supply box.

4. A Morning Beverage

Find out what your kids’ teacher likes to drink in the morning. Whether it’s coffee, tea, or juice, stop by the local coffee shop or convenience store and pick up a large cup for them. If you can’t find out what they like, consider grabbing a gift card for a coffee shop in your area.

The amount doesn’t even matter. They’ll be over the moon that you thought enough of them to go out of your way. If you’re feeling extra generous, consider tossing in a pastry or other small treat, too!

5. A Classroom Gift or Activity

If you want to include the entire class on the gratitude train, a group gift is a great way for everyone to show their appreciation. While public school classrooms tend to have a larger student-to-teacher ratio than the common 12 to 1-ratio of private schools, size doesn’t matter when it comes to showing appreciation. You can volunteer to collect a small sum from everyone and buy one nice gift.

If that doesn’t work for your class, consider a super inexpensive class project where all the students contribute. This could be a giant poster where the students all write why they appreciate the teacher or handwritten letters or drawings. The items can be placed in a decorative envelope or box and left on the teacher’s desk as a surprise.

As you can see, showing your child’s teacher they are appreciated doesn’t need to be expensive. It’s important in helping to keep a positive classroom environment and teaching children that we need to thank those who help us!