Four Creative Holiday Gift Ideas for the Educators on Your List

Coffee cups, ornaments, and sweet treats are great—but there can be too much of a good thing, especially when it comes to the holiday gifts that teachers receive around this time of the year. Looking for fresh ideas to give to the educators in your life that will brighten the holiday season? Try one of these outside-the-box gift suggestions!

Stock up their classroom

All too often, teachers end up dipping into their own pockets to make sure their students have the classroom supplies they need. So, helping them keep their classrooms stocked is one holiday gift that will never disappoint. Reference beginning-of-the-year supply lists, or simply ask the teacher you’re shopping for what they need most. Items like pencils, sharpies, highlighters, tissues, and even hand sanitizer are typically in high demand—or go with a Target or Amazon gift card to leave the decision up to them! If you’re looking to add a personal touch, there are lots of clever DIY ideas to make gift tags to go along with your practical present.

Give the gift of coffee

Teachers are responsible for rooms full of high-energy students all day, every day and it should come as no surprise that caffeine is generally viewed as a necessity. So, you can be equally certain that a gift card for coffee will always be appreciated by the educators on your list. Find out what his or her coffee-stop of choice is and treat them to a couple (or more) days’ worth of their favorite morning pick-me-up.

Pay it forward with a donation

Educators are a caring crowd—there’s no way they would have landed in the profession otherwise! Making a donation in their name can be a great way to show your appreciation for all they do in a manner that truly reflects the giving spirit of the holiday season. Do a little detective work to figure out which causes they are most passionate about, and donate to an organization working towards similar goals. If you’re at a loss for ideas, start with education crowdfunding websites like DonorsChoose! Find out if the teacher you’re shopping for has an active campaign, or donate to another one in your district or area.

Keep it simple with a personal thank-you

Sometimes, a heart-felt thank you is truly the best gift any of us can receive. Taking the time to create a home-made or hand-written card expressing your sincere appreciation for a teacher’s time, effort, and dedication is one gift option that you can never go wrong with. You’d be surprised how often we hear that these simple gifts are the ones held onto and cherished for the longest time.

Looking for more ideas to find the perfect gift for the educators in your life this holiday season? Check out these 24 Awesomely Thoughtful gifts for Teachers from Buzzfeed!

We at Edmentum also want to say thank you to all of the hard working, dedicated, and passionate educators out there. Make sure that the teachers on your list know about our Holiday Giveaway for a chance to win one of two iPad mini tablets!