Say thanks this holiday season with a gift that shows your gratitude for the time and heart your child’s teacher puts into teaching them.
We polled our team of tutors for a list of seven thoughtful yet practical presents that are big on appreciation without putting a big dent in your wallet.
A handwritten note: Teachers genuinely appreciate artwork and mementos from their students. Encourage your child to prepare a handmade picture or card with a thoughtful letter. Don’t be surprised to see it displayed in a place of honour at the teacher’s desk next time you visit the classroom.
A children’s book: Teachers are always looking for new books to add to their collection. Head to your local Indigo and let your child choose a book to gift their teacher; if you’re worried the teacher may already have it, stick with one of the latest finds. Encourage your child to write a personalized inscription inside the front cover to make this the perfect teacher appreciation gift.
School supplies: It’s no secret that teachers can’t get enough of school supplies. Dry-erase markers and colourful Sharpies are two popular supplies that teachers love to use but rarely buy for themselves. Pick up a pack or two of these multipurpose markers for a gift that’s guaranteed to be well-used all year long.
Gift cards: You can’t go wrong with gift cards, and Indigo or Staples are excellent choices. Teachers love the chance to stock up on supplies or pick up a new book to enjoy with their class. Another popular option is a gift card to the coffee shop that’s nearest the school, to be used for a lunchtime coffee run.
School-safe snacks: Beyond regular classroom time, school days are jam-packed for teachers. Between supervising an extra-curricular, indoor recesses, meetings, and staying late for planning and marking, they can put in a lot of extra hours. Create a snack pack full of healthy, nut-free treats that your child’s teacher can leave at school to nourish them when they need it most.
A tote bag: A roomy, durable tote bag with a reinforced bottom is a fantastic teacher gift. They’re always carrying books, marking, science and craft supplies between home and school, and a great bag will make it easy to do.
Gloves: With hours spent outside for yard duty, a cozy pair of gloves will keep a teacher’s fingers warm during the winter months while still giving them the freedom to use their fingers to help with jackets and opening snacks. Choose something on the thick side, as the weather feels extra cold when standing around in the schoolyard.
Related Articles View All
“Operation Cupcake”: A Sweet Introduction to Elementary Science, Math, and Engineering
Operation Cupcake: How Simple Machines Work is more than a story—it’s a STEM adventure starring two clever mice on a cupcake mission! Featuring simple machines, teamwork, and a sprinkle of humour, this Forest of Reading® nominee is the perfect introduction to science, math, and engineering. Don’t miss our exclusive interview with author and illustrator Bambi Edlund.
Celebrating School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week Across Ontario: How Communities Are Honouring These Hometown Heroes
At Teachers on Call, we know learning starts long before the school bell rings—it begins with the warm, familiar faces who guide students safely to school. That’s why we’re celebrating School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week, honouring the dedicated individuals who help make every school day safer and brighter across Ontario. Discover five creative ways your family can say thank you and explore how communities province-wide are showing their appreciation for these everyday heroes.
The Power of Visual Arts in Learning: Discovering the Magic of “Asha and the Toymaker”
In our latest Hooked on Books feature, we spotlight Asha and the Toymaker by Sakshi Mangal—a 2025 Blue Spruce Award nominee that celebrates the magic of creativity in childhood learning. Set in the colourful streets of Jodhpur, this visually stunning story inspires readers to explore the harmony between academic success and artistic expression.
