Our Favorite Things 2018 (for teachers and librarians)

Twinkling lights are starting to glimmer in neighborhoods. Winter concerts are packing the calendar. Students (and who am I kidding? Teachers) are already counting down the days until the Winter Break. That means it's time for Our Favorite Things. In this annual post, we offer ideas for teacher gift giving. If you are a student or parent of a student, we still say that our favorite gift -- a heartfelt thank you note --doesn't cost a thing. But if you are looking beyond notes or gift cards, we've got a few ideas for the teacher in your life. And if our family is reading this -- hint, hint!  So read, shop, enjoy.  
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-- Corey and Gretchen

Corey's List

1. I love the Teacher Box from the Idea Box Kids. Each box comes with a stack of wooden coins with suggested activities. They have tons of types to choose from (for a variety of grade levels) and are full of ideas for small classroom activities. Super cute, super fun. $20.

2. I love a good sign. This Inhale, Exhale print available on Etsy is simple, modern and an excellent little reminder for the teacher in your life to keep things in perspective when the going gets tough.  And at $4.99 it's reasonable for any budget.

Source: Barnes & Noble.

3. Teachers and Librarians are all about collaboration. Why not share a different story of collaboration with the Hamilton: A Revolution coffee table book? This book  complete with gorgeous photos tells the tale of how Hamilton: the Musical came to be. It's a tale of creativity, teamwork, and vision. And if you ask me that's a story to which teachers can relate. $28.

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4. One more from Etsy -- this "May Your Coffee Be Strong and Your Students Be Calm" tote bag is perfect for coffee loving teachers like me.  Teachers can never have enough totes, and in my mind they can never have enough caffeine. ​$13

5. Lastly, consider honoring a teacher in your life with a small monetary gift to a children's charity in his or her honor.  One of my favorites is Children's National. One of the sweetest moments I experienced last year was watching our dear friends' son "ring the bell" marking the end to his pediatric cancer treatment. Help more kids ring the bell by helping them get the care they need regardless of their financial circumstances.  Or make the gesture extra special by finding a charity that relates to your favorite teacher's favorite cause. 

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Gretchen's List

1. Have I told you how much I love patent prints? A few years ago I got some crew shell prints for my nephew who rows and a set of soccer prints for my husband, a huge fan of the beautiful game. This set of 4 "Inventions of the Library" from WunderkammerStudio on Etsy would be perfect for your favorite librarian. There are some beautiful music-related prints from the Etsy shop fittingly named PatentPrints that would make a great gift for a band or orchestra teacher. And this pencil sharpener from the same shop is charming! A quick search will truly find you the perfect patent print for any interest! $10-$15.

Source: BlockMerch, Etsy.com

2. This Book Heartbeat t-shirt from the BlockMerch shop on Etsy causes my heart to flutter! And it would be cute on casual Friday! A fun gift for a librarian, an English teacher, or anyone who loves books! $24.

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3. Wouldn't a cinema light box be a fun way to share positive messages in the classroom, library, or at home? This one is simple in black and white. Or upgrade to a color changing light box for added pizazz! $15-$30.

4. Have you heard of an  inverted umbrella? I love the concept: they close up backwards so as to avoid dripping water all over as you slide into the car or step into your house -- key for keeping teacher clothes looking cute and staying dry on a rainy day! And they come in so many fun colors! $15-$25.

5. Are you buying small gifts for several different teachers? Or, want to include the specialists in some holiday cheer? How about a  succulant? They bring a bit of green into a classroom and don't require much care.  Tie a pretty ribbon around the pot and include a sweet note --"Thanks for helping me grow and learn!" Best of all, you can get a pack of 5 live succulents for less than $15. Wow. 

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You might also like:

• Our Favorite Things 2017 (for teachers and librarians) (December 5, 2017)
• Our Favorite Things (for Teachers and Librarians) (December 6, 2016)