I returned home from our family summer vacation and stepped right into back-to-school prep with my kids (including brainstorming ideas for teacher gifts!). With a rising college sophomore and two high schoolers, the shopping list is short and they did most of the heavy lifting. I’m still processing this change—I love the independence but miss those younger years.
Strolling through the back to school aisles at Target always brings back fond memories of my kids’ elementary and middle school days—taking them shopping for school supplies and putting my culinary skills to the test. This time of year also creates a heightened appreciation for the wonderful teachers who help inspire, encourage, and care for our children.
Teachers have a gift that keeps on giving, even when the demands are high. And, as the daughter of former teachers, I’ve seen firsthand the effort that also goes into getting things ready even before our darlings enter the classroom on the first day.
I know we delight in moments like Teacher Appreciation Week and holidays to express our gratitude. But I’m sure a gesture of appreciation on the first day of school will warm their hearts as they gear up for a successful year.
I’m excited to share some thoughtful back to school teacher gift ideas that came to mind for teachers of littles—gifts that will help inspire, motivate, and take some of the load off.
(And if you’re like me and have teenagers, this post includes ideas for teachers of high schoolers.)
back to school teacher gifts
Some Favorites From Callie Danielle
Callie Danielle is back at Target with approximately 19 products from their back to school collection. I love her heart for teachers (she’s also a former elementary school teacher). Plus, her product designs are super cute and perfect for teachers of littles.
Here are my top Callie Danielle items that are available online and make great back to school teacher gifts.
1/ Digital Bulletin Board Subscription For only a $6 monthly commitment, help your child’s teacher fill their classroom with a little extra joy. These Class Pack Kits include monthly themed borders, banners, alphabet letters, shapes, and nameplates that can be personalized. Simply visit their website, select “Give As Gift”, choose either the 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month subscription, and send! Callie Danielle’s Happy Pack gift subscription is a great digital subscription option as well.
2/ Verses For Teachers Card Set Offer encouragement with this teacher card set that features carefully selected Bible verses that are sure to give a boost when needed. Included with the set is a cute acrylic stand for displaying the double-sided cards. Everything is perfectly packaged and ready for gifting—just add a card or personal note!
3/ Phrases For Teachers Card Set Like the verses card set, give your child’s teacher a daily dose of inspiration with a collection of uplifting quotes beautifully designed and ready for gifting.
back to school teacher gifts
Something Darling For Middle School Teachers
These Little Notes and Little Envelopes by E. Frances are so adorable and thoughtful in design and purpose. The notecards have the cutest hand-painted watercolor illustrations on the front and back, and the envelope flaps have the happiest smiley face on them. For an immediate spark of joy, visit their website!
While this gift idea is suitable for any teacher, I chose it for middle school teachers because each Little Notes box contains 85 tiny notecards, which work well now that your littles have multiple teachers. One box of Little Notes is all you need.
For this back to school teacher gift, use both products to create your own surprise and delight!
1/ Write words of encouragement on several of the Little Notes (I love the Let’s Go Pennant set for this gift idea). Then slip each into a Little Envelope.
2/ Save a few envelopes to slip in gift cards for a treat or to help with classroom supplies (Target, Starbucks, etc.).
3/ Gather all the envelopes and do a little shuffle. Tie them together with a cute ribbon or slip them into a Little Notes Ceramic Holder. (It comes in a lovely linen gift box.)
4/ Add a tag and write “Grab a note for a gift or inspiring quote” on it. Then include to and from, and you’re done! 😉
For elementary school teachers, have your littles write their own “wishes for a great school year” notes. (I’m welling up just thinking of a teacher seeing your child’s handwriting and reading these notes throughout the school year—so sweet and touching.)
back to school teacher gifts
Something Rooted In Tradition
I did a little research and discovered that the tradition of giving apples to teachers dates back to the 1700s. Families would give apples to educators as a form of compensation or thanks. And it’s been carried on as a charming way to show appreciation.
This blog post would not feel complete without a nod to this tradition. With its nostalgic appeal, an apple-inspired gift is a sweet way to show support or welcome a new elementary school teacher.
Lady Jayne’s charming collection of teacher gifts fits the bill. Here are my favorites:
1/ The Multi Note Block (add a note on the top sheet!)
2/ The Pink Apple Note-Folio (it includes various notepad sizes and a gold pen)
3/ The Cream Accessory Pouch (don’t forget to add a surprise inside!)
4/ Apple List Pad and Pen Set (for a more neutral option)
and don’t forget
Something You Can Carry On
- Continue to pray for teachers.
- Send an email on occasion to say thank you or share any positive feedback your child may have expressed—it will make their day.
- Be on the lookout for teacher supply requests or check their Amazon wishlist regularly.
