Christmas Gifts for Teachers? No Thanks | The Yorkshire Dad of 4

Christmas Gifts for Teachers? No Thanks

Teachers a re amazing people. Truly, I think it’s one of the most important jobs a person can undertake. Often thankless but also so rewarding. I am grateful that our girls have had some fantastic teachers over the years, and still do to this day. However, when it comes to buying them Christmas present – it’s a no from me.

It’s not me being un-thankful, disrespectful or a Grinch. A Christmas card is perfectly acceptable – surely? 

Imagine being a primary school teacher with a class of 30. Would you really want 30 little gifts, probably chocolate? I’ve heard some parents do a collection, with some even being asked for a £10 contribution. That’s some teacher to be getting a £300 gift isn’t it? Oh, and don’t even get me started on the independent Oxfordshire school putting a £50 cap on gift value for teachers!

Teaching children that it is better to give than to receive is important. But teaching them to give to the less fortunate or those in need is even more important. A teacher is paid to do a job. You can show immense thanks with words in a card. But that £10 you spend on a gift could make a huge difference to someone less fortunate’s life.

I do appreciate our girls teachers – I really do. There is even a chance some of them may read this – and I hope they agree with me. If they don’t it could be a tad awkward at the carol concert later this week!

Thanks for reading.

Dave


 

2 thoughts on “Christmas Gifts for Teachers? No Thanks”

  1. I am a teacher so thought this was an interesting post. Along with my colleagues, we work very hard. I get paid for doing my job, yes but spend an awful lot of my own money on making your child’s educational experience the best it can be. That’s my choice I know that but, in reality, most teachers spend their own money on the extras in schools these days. I’m not saying it’s right but it’s the truth. I buy each child a small gift as I have children in my class who may not get many presents from their parents. I love my job and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Now, gifts…..I never expect a gift from a child or parent. But I do love the handmade photo frames, cards or cookies that I receive. I love the fact that some want to show that they appreciate what I do. I suppose what I’m saying is that appreciation goes a long way but a simple card with a message of thanks is as lovely as a bottle of wine. Each family is different so to say no to all presents is like saying you have to give a present. Do what you feel is right, merry Christmas! #thatfridaylinky

  2. Thank you for this!
    As the wife of a teacher, we’ve thrown away an awful lot of chocolate fudge and bizarre-looking handmade Christmas ornaments over the past 25 years. A simple thank you–and a commitment to cooperate with the educational process throughout the year–are much better expressions of appreciation.

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