Fun & Thoughtful Back-To-School Gifts for Teachers

Ah, back-to-school season! The smell of new textbooks, the sound of excited chatter in the hallways, and the joy of seeing familiar faces again. Though the summer has just started, let’s not forget the heroes behind the scenes—our wonderful teachers. They spend their summer planning lessons, decorating their classrooms, and getting everything ready to welcome back your kiddos for the new school year. This year, show them a little appreciation with some thoughtful back-to-school gifts. Whether you’re a parent, a student, or a friend, we’ve got a list of fun and practical gift ideas that will surely bring a smile to your favorite teacher’s face. 

Stationery & Office Supplies

Teachers are always in need of supplies, so why not help them stock up with some stylish and practical items?

New Pens 

Photo courtesy of Paper Mate. 

Pens and markers are a teacher's best friends. Paper Mate Flair Pens and InkJoy Pens come in vibrant colors, making grading papers a bit more fun. Sharpie UltraFine Markers are perfect for precise writing on charts and projects. Bundle them up in a cute pen holder, and you’ve got a winner!

Personalized Notebooks

Photo courtesy of EverydayLeatherette on Etsy.

A personalized notebook with the teacher's name or a motivational quote on the cover is both thoughtful and practical. Teachers can use these for lesson planning, meeting notes, or even as a personal journal.

Sticky Notes & Holders

Photo courtesy of LoveGigiTX on Etsy.

Sticky notes are a staple in any classroom. Add a fun sticky note dispenser, and you've got a gift that’s both functional and stylish.

Classroom Wishlist

 Photo courtesy of Ticonderoga. 

Supporting a teacher’s classroom is one of the most practical and appreciated gifts you can offer. Teachers often spend their own money on supplies, so checking off items on their wishlist can significantly lighten their load.

Teachers frequently need basic supplies to keep their classrooms running smoothly. These items might seem mundane, but they’re essential for day-to-day activities and keeping students engaged.

• Ticonderoga pencils - Known for their durability and quality, these pencils are a classroom staple. They’re reliable and long-lasting, making them a top choice for teachers.
• Mr. Sketch markers - These markers are a favorite for their bright colors and fun scents, making learning activities more enjoyable for students. They’re perfect for creating colorful charts, posters, and other classroom materials.
• Glue sticks and scissors - These are essential for countless arts and crafts projects. Quality glue sticks that don’t dry out quickly and safe, easy-to-use scissors can make a big difference.
• Dry-erase markers - Teachers use these constantly for lessons on whiteboards. A fresh supply of markers and erasers ensures they can clearly communicate lessons and keep the boards clean.

Classroom management goes beyond just educational materials. Providing comfort and care items can create a more pleasant learning environment.

• Classroom snacks - Healthy snacks can keep students energized and focused. Items like granola bars, fruit snacks, and crackers are excellent choices. Make sure to check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions in the classroom.
• Tissues - Cold and allergy seasons can hit classrooms hard. A steady supply of tissues ensures students can stay comfortable and hygienic.
• Paper towels - Useful for cleaning up spills and keeping the classroom tidy, paper towels are a must-have.
• Hand sanitizer - Keeping germs at bay is crucial, especially during flu season. Hand sanitizers help maintain a healthy classroom.
• Disinfecting wipes - These are great for quick clean-ups and sanitizing surfaces, helping to reduce the spread of germs.

Teacher Bags

Teachers carry a lot more than just lesson plans and grading sheets—they often tote around books, supplies, snacks, and personal items. A sturdy, stylish, and functional bag can make their daily commute and classroom organization much easier. Here’s a detailed look at some fantastic options for teacher bags and why they make such great gifts.

Backpack

A backpack is a classic and practical choice for teachers who need to carry a lot of items comfortably. The Day Owl Backpack Pro is particularly well-suited for educators due to its thoughtful design and durable materials.

The Day Owl Backpack Pro offers multiple compartments, including padded sections for laptops and tablets, which are essential for modern teaching. There are also plenty of pockets for organizing pens, notebooks, and other small items.

Made from recycled materials, the Day Owl Backpack is an eco-friendly choice. Teachers who are passionate about sustainability will appreciate this thoughtful detail. 

Don’t forget that Day Owl offers a 30% discount for teachers! When purchasing any of these items, simply click the "verify with ID.Me" button at checkout to get the discount. This applies to a wide range of educational professionals, including certified teachers, teaching assistants, and school administrators.

Cord Pouch

The perfect companion to any teacher bag is a cord pouch, and the Day Owl Pouch is an ideal choice for keeping tech accessories organized. This small pouch is designed to hold cables, chargers, earphones, and other tech essentials. It keeps these items neatly organized and easily accessible.

Tote Bag

For a simpler option, the Day Owl Packable Tote is a fantastic choice. It blends practicality with a touch of elegance, making it suitable for both work and personal use. The tote bag features a roomy main compartment that can accommodate books and papers. This bag isn’t just for school; it’s perfect for grocery shopping, weekend getaways, or even as a stylish diaper bag. Its versatility makes it a valuable gift.

Books

Books are a timeless and thoughtful gift for teachers, who often have a deep appreciation for both reading and learning. Whether for personal enjoyment or to enhance their classroom resources, books are always a welcomed and meaningful gift. Gift cards to bookstores allow teachers to select exactly what they need or want, whether for their classroom or for themselves.

Digital Photo Frame

Photo courtesy of Nixplay.

A digital photo frame is a unique and personal gift. It allows teachers to display their favorite classroom moments or cherished family photos. It’s a lovely way to bring a touch of home to their desk.

Plants

 Photo courtesy of Lego.

Bringing a touch of nature into the classroom can create a more inviting and calming environment. Plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also have numerous benefits such as improving air quality and reducing stress. 

A well-chosen potted plant can be a delightful addition to a teacher's desk or classroom. Here are some low-maintenance and popular options for classroom plants:

• Succulents - These hardy little plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them perfect for a classroom setting. They require minimal watering and can thrive in various lighting conditions.
• Snake plant - Known for its air-purifying qualities, the snake plant is incredibly easy to care for. It can tolerate low light and infrequent watering, making it an ideal choice for busy teachers.
• Peace lily - With its elegant white blooms and lush green leaves, the peace lily adds a touch of tranquility to any space. It's also known for its air-purifying abilities and is relatively low-maintenance.

For a unique and lasting gift, consider a Lego plant set. These sets combine the joy of building with the beauty of a plant, offering a creative and interactive experience.

Gift Cards  

Photo courtesy of Target.

When in doubt, gift cards are the way to go! They’re versatile and practical—and let the teacher choose exactly what they need or want.

From classroom supplies to personal indulgences, Amazon and Target have it all. An Amazon or Target gift card can help teachers buy everything from books and stationery to tech gadgets and cozy home goods.

For a more unique touch, Etsy is the go-to place. Here, teachers can find personalized items, handmade goods, and unique classroom decor. An Etsy gift card allows them to choose something special that reflects their personal style or classroom theme.

Think beyond the usual suspects with gift cards that cater to a teacher’s personal interests and needs. These options show you’ve put thought into their individual preferences and well-being.

• Dinner out - Give the gift of a relaxing night off with a gift card to a popular local restaurant. It’s a great way to help them unwind after a long week.
• Local coffee shop - Teachers often run on coffee, so a gift card to a beloved local coffee shop. It’s a small luxury that can make a big difference in their day.
• Hobby-related gift cards - Does your teacher have a passion for gardening, crafting, or fitness? Consider a gift card to stores like Michaels for craft supplies, a local nursery for gardening gear, or a sports store for fitness equipment. Supporting their hobbies shows you recognize and value their interests outside the classroom.

A Hand-Written Note

Sometimes, the simplest gestures mean the most. A heartfelt, hand-written note can make a world of difference. Grab a cute card and write a personal message. Tell your teacher how much you appreciate their hard work or how excited you are for the upcoming year. It’s a small token, but it carries immense value. Combine it with a gift card to make it extra special.

Showing appreciation to teachers doesn’t have to be complicated. With these fun and thoughtful back-to-school gift ideas, you can help kick off the school year on a positive note. So, pick out a few items, add a personal touch, and make your teacher’s day. After all, they deserve it!