Did you forget that May 7th was Teacher Appreciation Day? Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to show your child’s teachers that you value their service. Modeling appreciation fosters healthy communication, perspective and gratitude in children, and helps them navigate all types of interpersonal dynamics that they’ll encounter throughout their academic careers.
The most obvious way to show teacher appreciation is to purchase a simple gift, like a box of chocolates, a small plant, or a gift card to a local coffee shop. All teachers appreciate this kind of gesture, and it is perhaps the easiest to put together. At this busy time of year, it’s also the most logical and practical option. If you have time to spare, however, you can help your child make a gift at home, like a picture collage or a batch of brownies that his or her teacher can share with other teachers. In addition to being more personal, a homemade gift is usually less expensive, and teaches your child to be resourceful with the things they have at home.
One way to show appreciation that is often overlooked is a hand-written note from your child. To many teachers, this is the most personal and impactful gift they can receive from a student. It shows that your child put valuable time and thought into expressing his or her appreciation, and it is an opportunity for your child to be vulnerable and authentic – two traits that will come in handy for years to come. Did your child’s teacher put in extra time to teach an especially difficult concept, write a recommendation, or go out of their way to teach an important non-academic lesson? A personalized note is a great way to respond in kind.
We at Franklin know how much work you do as the parent, and how many balls you have to juggle and hats you have to wear on a weekly basis. If you forgot to show your child’s teachers that your family appreciates them – don’t fret! It’s never too late to show them you care. If you would like to discuss how we can help you and your child navigate the remainder of the school year, please call 310.571.1176 or email FranklinServices@FranklinEd.com.
John Posatko, M.Ed.
Director of Education
Franklin offers specialized academic tutoring, home school, test preparation, and educational therapy in Los Angeles and Orange County. Contact us for more info!