Every May, we get the chance to celebrate the incredible teachers who make a difference in our kids’ lives every day! Teacher Appreciation Week runs from May 5-9, 2025, with Teacher Appreciation Day falling on May 6.
If you’re wondering how this special week started, fun ways to celebrate, and what gifts teachers actually love (including most that are budget-friendly!), you’re in the right place. Grab your coffee, mama, and let’s dive in! ☕💖
Teacher Appreciation Week has been around for decades, but it officially became a nationally recognized celebration in 1984, thanks to the National PTA. The idea actually dates back to 1953 when Eleanor Roosevelt pushed for a dedicated day to honor teachers. Since then, it’s become a full week of celebration—because let’s be real, one day isn’t enough for everything teachers do!
Whether you’re a busy mom, a thoughtful grandma, or a super-organized room parent, here are some simple yet meaningful ways to show teachers some love:
A handwritten thank-you note from your child (or you!) can mean more than any gift. Teachers cherish these personal messages, and some even keep them for years!
Organize a classroom surprise! Have each student bring in a flower, a small treat, or a drawing. By the end of the day, the teacher will have a beautiful bouquet and a collection of thoughtful gifts!
One year, a parent at our school took this idea to the next level. Instead of individual gifts, they organized a class-wide collection, where families could pitch in whatever amount they could—big or small. With the pooled contributions, they purchased a beautiful gift for the classroom that all the children could enjoy. The teachers were absolutely surprised and so incredibly thankful! It was a heartfelt way to show appreciation while also giving back to the whole class.
Most teachers (and Mom’s alike) are fueled by caffeine (can we blame them?!). A gift card to their favorite coffee shop or a surprise lunch delivery can be a total day-brightener.
Teachers often spend their own money on classroom supplies. Gifting things like dry-erase markers, fun stickers, or a Target or Amazon gift card can be a huge help.
Teachers work HARD. A self-care gift—like a cozy blanket, scented candles, or a relaxing bath bomb set—can encourage them to take some well-deserved time for themselves.
Looking for practical & affordable gift ideas that teachers will actually use and love? We’ve got you covered! Click the links to grab these Simply Sales-approved picks. ⬇️
When we asked in our Simply Sales group what teachers would like the most – this was the most popular answer! You can find almost any store of gift cards right on Amazon! 👉 Shop now! Another great idea is a gift card bouquet! Instead of flowers, collect small gift cards to places your teacher will love—coffee shops, bookstores, restaurants, or even a local spa. Attach them to sticks, decorative straws, or metal sticks arrange them in a vase, and voilà! A fun, thoughtful, and super useful bouquet that keeps on giving!
Keep their coffee hot all morning (because we all know they never get to drink it fresh!). 👉 Shop now!
Teachers love a good set of pens—especially ones that make grading papers more fun! 👉 See the best-rated set here!
Perfect for unwinding after a long day in the classroom. 👉 Find a relaxing set here!
Because they carry everything—papers, books, snacks, you name it! A cute and functional tote is a must-have. 👉 Grab it here!
Teachers shape the future, and even the smallest gesture of gratitude can mean the world to them. Whether it’s a simple thank-you note, a thoughtful gift, or just a kind word, let’s make sure they feel extra special this Teacher Appreciation Day and Week! 🎉🍎✨
Next up on the celebration calendar? Mother’s Day! 💕 After showing our amazing teachers some love, it’s time to appreciate the moms who do it all. Whether you’re shopping for your own mom, a mother figure, or even treating yourself (because you deserve it!), we’ve rounded up the best gifts to make her feel special. Check out our top Mother’s Day gift ideas here! 💐💖
What’s the best teacher gift you’ve ever given (or received)? Share in the comments! 👇
