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Treats for Teacher
Holiday Gifts for Your Child's Educators
By Beth Hering
Think twice about giving breakable items. "There are few things as heart-wrenching as a 5-year-old's face after she has dropped a vase her mother warned her to carry carefully," says kindergarten teacher Paulette Braccio, of Matteson, Ill.
Even if you choose to deliver the present yourself, it may be wise to give the teacher a heads up that the item is breakable. Some teachers prefer to open presents away from school so that kids who did not give something will not feel bad. More than one teacher interviewed inadvertently broke a fragile present on the way home.
Personal items are also frowned upon. Several teachers mentioned receiving perfume in scents they wouldn't want to wear or compacts full of makeup in unflattering shades.
In addition, while a new teacher may enjoy getting items with the word "teacher" on them, veteran teachers often prefer not to receive such things. "I could fill a whole tree with the number of teacher ornaments I've received over the years," Braccio says.
Likewise, go easy on the pictures of your son or daughter. Remember that your child is just one of many students a teacher has enriched. "I was dumbstruck when one student gave me a T-shirt with a blown-up picture of herself on it," says one first-grade teacher. If you really want to give a photo remembrance, opt for a wallet-sized picture in a frame or other type of holder.
Lastly, try to avoid controversial choices. Teachers come from a variety of political, social and religious backgrounds. Do not assume you know the person well enough to pick a gift that delves into these areas.
Want to see more?
- Holiday Baking with Kids: Fun and Easy Goodies to Make with Your Children
- Talking with the Teacher: Making the Most out of Parent-Teacher Conferences
- Holiday Crafts: Gifts Kids Can Make Themselves
- Heart-y Gift Giving: Teaching Kids the True Meaning of the Giving Season
- Check out our Article Library.
- Talk about it!
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