Teacher gifts that won’t break the bank (or end up in the garbage)

My son started preschool this year. He’s in a co-op program, so I get to volunteer one morning a month to help chase after the 13 kids in his class. I love being able to do this but it’s completely exhausting. And it gives me a huge appreciation of how much work his teachers do to make his school experience great. 

It’s also the first year we’ve ever had to think about getting a teacher gift. I admit I’m a bit lost as to what to buy - I don’t want to get something they won’t end up using, and I also don’t want to spend a fortune. Most important - I want the gift to show that we appreciate what they do every day. 

So I’ve been doing some research and found some great ideas at both Wise Bread and Better Budgeting. 

One site actually lists ravioli as a gift idea (odd and kind of gross, no?) - but there are lots of other suggestions for homemade gifts that your kids can make like Christmas tree decorations or a set of blank note cards that they decorate themselves. I also like the idea of making a relaxation kit - you can put one together easily by including things like bath salts, candles and even some homemade cookies or candy. 

One site suggests offering to help out in the classroom or on field trips - make a cute IOU or gift certificate for your time that your kid’s teacher can use whenever they need help. Totally free - and very valuable when volunteers are tough to come by. 

Another gift all teachers love - the gift of thanks. Make sure you write out a personal note saying thank you and that you appreciate the work they do every day. 

Chime in below and let me know your best ideas for teacher gifts that won’t break the bank (even if it’s ravioli!).