Gift for the Best Teacher in the World

I’ve been a teacher longer than I’ve been a mother. Although, the students I’ve had over the years have felt like my own children and they’ve also called me Mom a time or two. I’ve worked with amazing teachers who have also felt the same towards their students. My son’s first grade teacher qualified for “The Best Teacher in the World.” Why? The students knew they mattered and learned that it was important to be kind, thoughtful, compassionate, and caring. I wish we could have made this gift for her.

How do you thank a teacher who cares deeply about your child? One of the most thoughtful gifts I’ve received is a heartfelt note from a parent. I also love handwritten notes from students and of course, books. Wait until you see this fabulous DIY class book made by the students!

This DIY Teacher Appreciation book was designed for students to write for teachers.

I had the privilege of making it for my co-teacher last year. It was her first full year teaching and this was her first group of students. She loved receiving it and the students loved making it. Sometimes their responses were downright hilarious!

One thing I really like about this book is ability to differentiate based on student’s ability. Some can color, while others write short phrases and sentences.

Supplies you need for your Teacher Appreciation Book:

(Amazon affiliate links provided for your convenience)

white card stock paper*
purchase and print the Teacher Appreciation Book**
paper cutter (I have this one and most schools have one in the building)
4×6 photo album (Sometimes they can also be found at the Dollar Store)

*The card stock is perfect for students to use. The thickness allows students to write, color, and erase without wrinkling the paper.

**This book is listed on Teachers Pay Teachers for sale. Click Here. The pages will be sent to you via a download. Pages will need to be cut into 4×6 sizes to fit the photo album.

Directions below the photo:

Directions for putting the book together:

Count the number of pages in your book and then count the number of students participating.
There are 4 different student pages. You might be able to have each child make 2 pages, it just depends on the number of students and the number of pages the photo album you purchased.
Print out your book on card stock. You’ll only need 1 copy of the cover and it looks great in full color.
Pages 3-4 can be printed out multiple times.
Cut out the pages with the paper cutter.
Work with students in small groups to prepare the pages for their teacher. If needed, give them draft paper to practice first and brainstorm a list of words they can use. One thing I really like about this book is ability to differentiate based on student’s ability. Some can color, while others write short phrases and sentences.
Compile the pages in your book, put the cover and back page in, tie a ribbon on it and you’re done!

What Else Can You Give Teachers?

Should you still give a gift card at the end of the year? Yes! I also know that teachers rarely need more “stuff”…or apples. Are you looking for something meaningful to give from the kids too? I wrote an entire post on Give this …. Not That for teacher gifts. But remember, a kind letter to the teacher and even to the principal on their behalf, speaks volumes and costs no money.

Teach our children to appreciate the amazing teachers in their lives!