Teachers are special. They are cheerleaders, coaches, disciplinarians, fun aunts/uncles, and special friends to us all.  They play such an important role in your child's life by not only teaching them academic lessons, but also positive social and emotional behaviors. 

Like other caretaking professionals, people say teachers are called to the profession. It's not just a job but a vital part of who they are. Great teachers know how to walk the line between engaging and demanding while commanding and teaching respect. They need to be silly, smart, caring, empathetic, patient and they do it all with a smile (usually).

Even though World Teachers' Day was technically yesterday, these special people deserve an entire week to be honored. Here are a few ways you can be sure your teacher knows how much you appreciate everything they do, every day, for your children.

Write a Heartfelt Note with your Child

Teachers love receiving notes cards and pictures from their students but it can be especially poignant if you and your child take time together to appreciate all the things you love about your teacher. This does not need to be lengthy but should speak directly to what you both love about your child's teacher. 

Gift Cards, Gift Cards, Gift Cards

Many teachers spend quite a bit of their own money on supplies, games, toys, and other decorations to keep the classroom engaging and to present meaningful lessons. Why not help them make the year special for your child with a gift card to a store where they can stock up like Amazon, Target or a craft supplies store. These are a few teacher favorites and will surely be money well spent.

It also doesn't hurt to to buy a gift card to a favorite local coffee shop or bookstore. Teachers can spend a little money on themselves. They deserve it!

A Gift from the Entire Class

Gifts from the entire class are always a wonderful way to show teachers how much their students love them. Have each student in the class pick a flower from their garden or your school's garden and bring them to class. Assign one student to collect all the flowers and organize them into a bouquet. 

If fresh flowers are not an option or for something more personal, have each student draw and cut out a flower of their choice. Write their name on the back and  a special note to the teacher on the stem of petals. Have one student or room parent collect the flowers and organize them together into a paper bouquet.

Keep it Simple

It doesn't have to take tons of time or money to share your appreciation. A quick e-mail or phone call to say thank you can be exactly what your teacher needs to hear. Or ask them for a few of their favorites (candy, snacks, or drinks) and pick up a few candy bars, bags of chips, or fruit slices. Bake cookies with your child and bring those in. 

If you prefer to steer clear of food, try a small plant. 

Teachers don't work for the money or the glory but that doesn't meN they don't need it like a bit of attention and appreciation. This week, show them the love!

How will you celebrate World Teachers' Day? Let us know in the comments!

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