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.
Earlier guides
Explore our earlier guides, newest first. These are archived recommendations; prices and availability may have changed.
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.
Shop all picks
This guide contains affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission from some purchases to help support our team. All picks are determined editorially by our staff; there has been no compensation in exchange for our picks.
Notes From the Backpack
A short parenting miniseries tackling teen stress, anxiety and depression—helpful for caregivers looking for conversation starters and mental-health guidance.
From the guide
The Great Courses Plus: How to Grow Anything — Food Gardening for Everyone (Course)
A video course that teaches practical, beginner-friendly food gardening techniques — a thoughtful gift for someone who wants to start growing their own food.
From: Join The We Time Project! A little bit of community and learning. A whole lot of fun.
Young Scientist Challenge: Entry Guide
A step-by-step guide to entering the Young Scientist Challenge—great for encouraging middle-school problem-solvers to pursue a STEM competition and potential mentorships/prizes.
From: If your kid is a problem-solver, they could win a cool 25 grand. Here's how.
Seek by iNaturalist (wildlife ID app)
A smartphone app that identifies plants and animals from photos—good for nature lovers and curious explorers of all ages.
From the guide
Prodigy Math Game Premium Membership
A gamified online math platform membership that makes learning math fun for kids — a thoughtful gift for young learners who could use engaging practice.
From the guide
She's The First — Scholarship or General Donation
A donation to She's The First funds scholarships and programs that support girls' education globally, a meaningful gift that advances equality and opportunity.
From: 6 year-end charitable donation ideas that support children and education
i.am.angel Foundation — STEM & Creative Programs Donation
Donating to the I.Am.Angel Foundation helps expand educational opportunities and programs for youth in underserved communities.
From: 6 year-end charitable donation ideas that support children and education
Head Start — Early Education Donation
A year-end donation to Head Start supports high-quality early education and resources for young children and families.
From: 6 year-end charitable donation ideas that support children and education
Screen-Free Art Kit or Educational Game
Well-designed, durable art kits and games that encourage hands-on learning and long-lasting play.
From: Smart Earth Day ideas for families - and the sustainable brands making it easier
EarthDay.org Classroom Kit or Event Donation
Classroom kits or event support from the original Earth Day organizer—meaningful for families or educators.
From: Smart Earth Day ideas for families - and the sustainable brands making it easier
Roots & Shoots Family Project Kit
Youth-led program resources for starting local environmental projects—empowering and community-focused.
From: Smart Earth Day ideas for families - and the sustainable brands making it easier
National Wildlife Federation Family Membership or Kit
Memberships and backyard wildlife garden resources that encourage outdoor learning and stewardship.
From: Smart Earth Day ideas for families - and the sustainable brands making it easier
Earth Rangers Kids Activity App (Premium/Support)
App that turns real-world environmental missions into earnable badges—engaging and educational for kids.
From: Smart Earth Day ideas for families - and the sustainable brands making it easier
Ready or Not by Dr. Madeline Levine (Book)
A New York Times bestselling parenting book offering research-based guidance to help children thrive in uncertain, rapidly changing times — a thoughtful gift for parents, therapists, or educators.
From the guide
holiday gift guides on Cool Mom Tech
Monthly or yearly subscription granting kids access to a large library of ebooks and audiobooks—good for young readers and families.
From: Presenting our 100% entirely Small Business Holiday Gift Guide 2020: See our top 10 gifts for everyone on your list
FATHER FIGURE: How to Be a Feminist Dad (book)
A thoughtful parenting book offering insights for dads who want an equitable, modern approach to fatherhood—good as a gift for new or expectant fathers.
From: The best new parent advice from 9 of the smartest, most insightful parent bloggers we know
Our Bodies, Ourselves (Book)
A classic, informative book about sexual and reproductive health — a thoughtful educational gift for parents or teens.
From: 6 important reasons to talk to girls honestly about their bodies and sexual health. And no, you can't say "vajayjay."
Circuit Blox 395 by E-Blox
A snap-together electronic building set that teaches basic circuitry and STEM concepts through play—suitable for kids who like hands-on learning.
From: Black Friday shopping: 6 holiday toys to have on your radar this weekend | Sponsored Message
Hack Laptop (Kids Coding Laptop)
A kid-focused, full-stack everyday laptop that teaches coding—good for tech-curious children learning programming and digital skills.
From the guide
ChoreCheck App (chore & allowance tracker)
A chore-management and allowance-tracking app subscription that helps kids learn responsibility and money skills — useful for parents wanting an organized system.
From the guide
GraviTrax Marble Run Building Set
Interactive build-and-race marble track toy that encourages STEM play and creativity — great for kids who like hands-on puzzles.
From the guide
Prodigy Premium Membership (math learning platform)
A subscription that unlocks extra features and rewards on the Prodigy math platform — a gift that motivates kids to practice math.
From the guide
Our World Out of Balance: Understanding Climate Change and What We Can Do
A clear, informative book for kids that breaks down climate science and offers practical actions families can take, ideal for young readers who want to help.
From: 3 new books for kids about climate change that inform, uplift, and help us move forward
Palm Trees at the North Pole: The Hot Truth about Climate Change
An engaging children’s book that explains climate change impacts with accessible text and visuals, making it a thoughtful gift to spark conversations about the planet.
From: 3 new books for kids about climate change that inform, uplift, and help us move forward