Let's face it: our teachers do not want another mug. They don't want another apple magnet, and they certainly don't want—or need—another Christmas ornament. No more ties, desk organizers, or tablets. No more "Best Teacher" wall hangings or chalkboard accessories.
Don't get me wrong—every teacher I know would be grateful for anything given to him or her. That's a fact. Gifts or tokens of thanks for Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-8, 2015) or end-of-year gifts are truly special and appreciated, no matter what they are. However, this year, how about giving your child's teacher something he or she will really, truly use—a children's book?
Most teachers are always in need of new children's books for their classroom library, so consider giving the teacher a book as a gift this year.
You can either have your child sign the inside cover along with a short, sweet "thank you" note, or print out a little bookplate for the book. Scholastic has a ton of cool, free bookplates here: bookplates and bookmarks.
Here are some books we think are super choices to be given as a gift to your child's teacher:
The Great Fuzz Frenzy by Janet Stevens and illustrated by Susan Stevens Crummel
Arnie the Doughnut by Laurie Keller
Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds and illustrated by Paulette Bogan
What a Day It Was at School! by Jack Prelutsky and illustrated by Doug Cushman
Sometimes I Like to Curl Up in a Ball by Charles Fuge and Vicki Churchill
Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson and illustrated by Jane Chapman
I'm So Embarrassed by Robert Munsch and illustrated by Michael Martchenko
Today I Feel Silly & Other Moods That Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis and illustrated by Laura Cornell
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
Punctuation Celebration by Elsa Knight Bruno and illustrated by Jenny Whitehead
Remember, this list is just a start; there are hundreds and hundreds of top-notch children's books out there that are all perfect for classroom libraries and read-alouds. Look for one that is funny, that has great illustrations, that has a great rhythm, or is just one of your child's personal favorites.
Still need some ideas? Consider a book pack—3-5 books from one author.
Consider:
• Tomie dePaola
• Eve Bunting
• Jarrett Krosoczka
• Karma Wilson
• Kevin Henkes
• Patricia Polacco
Or check out all of our favorite authors and illustrators here in the authors & illustrators index.
What books do you think would make great gifts for teachers? Share the titles with us on the Scholastic Parents Facebook page, or find Amy on Twitter, @teachmama, and let's continue the conversation!
Read all posts by Amy Mascott.