Although the weather isn’t a great indication, we are nearing the end of the school year. When I was an elementary school teacher, I was definitely tired and done by the time June rolled around. I was itching to enjoy lazy days of summer and finally take a vacation. The work that teachers do is admirable. And I am happy to shine the spotlight on them today. Daniela’s gift guide is well-researched and perfectly varied. If you’re looking for a teacher’s gift, read on!

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Hi everyone!

Many of us are trying to find that perfect gift for our children’s teachers this month. Since I struggle with what to buy my daughter’s preschool teachers, I took to the streets and asked a number of teachers both in elementary and high school environments about favourite gifts they have received. I have to tell you I was hoping for creative answers from them, but I got a whole lot of “I’d appreciate a gift card” responses.

The number one gift request by all of my teacher friends and acquaintances is a gift card. Most of them had these stores as their most coveted: LCBO (and, yes, they prefer a gift card to a bottle of wine), Starbucks, Dollarama, Indigo, and The Keg.

Because I really love buying and receiving tangible gifts, I pushed my teacher friends to give me some things they would like, and I have listed them below.

Consider a personalized item. People love having something with their initial or name on it. For this, I recommend Minted. Independent artists design all products purchased from Minted.

Ready to hang art or an inspirational message are great for their classrooms and have a personal touch.

Karisa Marley’s piece called “I can” would be fitting for a teacher who has truly inspired your child.

Does your child have a teacher who is always wearing a nice scarf either as a fashion statement or because they are cold? Add to their collection!

Nice pens are another great idea for teachers. After all, they do a lot of marking and writing! Having a nice pen to do that with is always welcome by teachers!

Read about why this pen is the best.

This fun set of pens not only write well, but they even have fun sayings on them!

Does the teacher in your life carry her ID and keys on a lanyard? If so, one of these products would make a great gift.

There was a big divide on teachers who absolutely hate getting a mug or insulated water bottle – and those that love this gift! Insulated bottles not only keep teachers’ water or cold drink cold, but they can also keep a tea or coffee hot for hours. If you’ve read my other gift guides, then you’ve seen this next brand already. I am once again recommending my favourite Canadian insulated water bottle company Green’s Your Colour.

Almost all the teachers I spoke with mentioned the best part of a gift is if it comes with a personal message in a card. These meaningful cards written by students is the best part of the gift, so make sure whatever you decide to do with regards to a teacher gift, write a thoughtful note in the card! It’s a must!

I hope I made your teacher gift shopping a little easier with this gift guide! In the end, you can never go wrong with a gift card!

Happy Shopping!

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Thanks, Daniela! These are useful gifts for teachers, but they’re also great for friends and loved ones, too!