Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Appreciate
Teachers deserve so much more than another "World's Best Teacher" mug. These are our favorite teacher gifts for Teacher Appreciation Week, the holidays and the end of the school year, including gift cards done right, classroom upgrades, self-care treats and personal touches from the kids. It's a small thank-you for a huge job.
Start with a guide
Gift guide · October 28, 202617 Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Use (and Love) This Holiday Season
Gift guide · December 7, 20252025 Holiday Gift Guide: Our favorite food (and food-related) gifts for everyone on your list
Gift guide · October 29, 20269 easy ideas for handmade gifts for Teacher Appreciation Week or end of year teacher gifts from the kids.
The guides
Gift guide · October 28, 202617 Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Use (and Love) This Holiday Season
Gift guide · October 29, 20269 easy ideas for handmade gifts for Teacher Appreciation Week or end of year teacher gifts from the kids.
From the archive · March 17, 2024One Cool Thing: A thoughtful gift under $10 for an avid reader, teacher, or a new grad
From the archive · May 28, 2024These are the 5 most meaningful gifts for teachers, according to a longtime educator
From the archive · December 12, 202418 last-minute DIY holiday gifts for friends. And family, who you like enough to call friends. | Holiday Gifts
From the archive · February 2, 201617 wonderful DIY Valentine's Day gifts that the kids can make | Valentine's Day Gifts 2016
From the archive · January 29, 2020This brilliant classroom activity for Valentine's Day makes everyone feel the love.
From the archive · February 8, 2022Exceptional chocolates from Black-owned chocolate companies. For Valentine's Day and beyond. (2024 update)
Gift guide · December 7, 20252025 Holiday Gift Guide: Our favorite food (and food-related) gifts for everyone on your list
Editors' top picks
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Scarf
$54See it in the guideFrom: 17 Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Use (and Love) This Holiday Season
Compartés Best Selling Chocolate Bars set
$49See it in the guideFrom: 17 Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Use (and Love) This Holiday Season
Vessi Forecast Gloves
$60See it in the guideFrom: 17 Teacher Gifts They'll Actually Use (and Love) This Holiday Season
Frequently asked
What is a good gift for a teacher?
Teachers consistently say they appreciate gift cards (for coffee, books or classroom supplies), heartfelt notes from students, and practical treats over more mugs and trinkets. A note from your child is often the most treasured part.
How much should you spend on a teacher gift?
There's no set amount. Many families spend a modest sum, and class-wide group gifts are a great way to give something more meaningful without anyone overspending. Check your school's gift policy too, since some districts set limits.
How much should a teacher gift card be for Teacher Appreciation Week or the holidays?
Small, thoughtful amounts are completely appropriate. Pooling with other families for a larger group card is also popular. The note your kid writes matters as much as the amount.
What should you put in a teacher gift basket?
Mix a treat (good coffee or snacks), a small self-care item, a few classroom supplies they always run out of, and a handwritten note from your child.