10 Gifts Your Child’s Teacher ACTUALLY Wants for Teacher Appreciation Week
(And 10 Definitely to Definitely Avoid)
Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-9, 2025, is the perfect time to show your gratitude to the educators who dedicate themselves to your child for almost the entire year. We know that aAs a parent, we know you're juggling a lot, but let’s pause and think about the teachers. Yeah, it’s their turn for appreciation.
Junior Achievement of Georgia knows firsthand the incredible impact teachers have on students' lives, and we’re here to help you get it right. Consider us your personal assistant for finding the perfect gift—spoiler: mugs are not it.
So, fire up that Amazon Prime account, and let’s get to shopping! Here are the 10 gifts your teacher will actually want:
1. Gift Cards & Coupons
Perfect for a last-minute pick-me-up! Whether it’s for coffee or a favorite local restaurant, these will always be appreciated.
2. High-Quality Writing Supplies
Think G2 or RSVP pens, Flair or Paper Mate colored pens, or the big one: Giant Sharpies. Don’t underestimate the power of a pack of Expo Dry Erase Markers.
3. Tote Bags
Taking home stacks of tests to grade? A durable, cute tote is a must-have for hauling all that work they complete during their personal time at home.
4. Handwritten Notes & Art from the Student
There’s nothing like receiving appreciation directly from the source. One teacher shared that a student once wrote a creative story featuring them as the star, and they still keep it to this day.
Help them rock their school ID in style with a fun lanyard or a quirky keychain.
Teachers give so much to others—let’s give them a chance to recharge. Facemasks, shower steamers, and other spa-inspired treats make a perfect DIY self-care kit- spa day dupe, if you will.
Not a mug (please, no mugs!), but actual bags of coffee or tea. Teachers need caffeine to keep up with their busy days, so why not help fuel their workweek?
8. Lunch!
Special delivery—whether it’s a hot meal or their favorite takeout with a large half-and-half tea, a midday treat goes a long way.
9. Beach Towels
A subtle reminder the light at the end of the tunnel is near, and soon they will be soaking up the summer sun.
10. Plants
Whether it’s real or fake, a little greenery can brighten up and bring some calm to their classroom.
Now, in case our top 10 list isn’t enough to steer you in the right direction, we’ve got the top 10 gifts to 100% avoid:
1. Cups, Mugs, Tumblers
Seriously. No. More. Mugs. Let’s retire the “#1 Teacher” mug once and for all.
2. Ornaments
They might be cute, but they pile up fast and your taste might not fit their holiday aesthetic.
3. Random Highlighters & Pens
If they aren’t the good ones, then they are definitely not needed.
4. Candy
Let’s be real—sugar overload, and the students will just steal it anyway. It’s not the most thoughtful gift.
5. Notepads
Teachers already have a stack of notepads, so on to the next.
6. Cheesy Sayings About Teaching
Sure, “It takes a big heart…” sounds nice, but it’s way overdone. Save the sentiment for a Hallmark card.
7. Junky Decor & Desk Clutter
Mini chalkboards, apple paperweights, or any trinket that clutters up their workspace—just… no.
8. Monogrammed Items
Monogramming can be cute, but not everyone wants their initials on everything they own.
9. Cheap or Low-Effort Appreciation Gestures
Like a sad baked potato bar with no toppings. If you’re going to do food, make it count.
10. Did We Mention Mugs?
We’re just going to say it one more time. No more mugs.
Let’s make Teacher Appreciation Week one to remember! Whether you choose a practical gift like a tote bag or a thoughtful self-care package, remember that it’s the thought and effort that count most. Teachers pour their hearts into their work all year long—so this week, let’s make sure they feel the love and appreciation they truly deserve. And, if you're stuck on what to get, just remember: skip the mug, and go for something they'll actually use!