17 Unique Teacher Gifts Under $30 That'll Score You Major Parent Points
It's officially that time of year when we want to thank the amazing people who help guide and educate our little rug-rats.
This year is particularly big for me as we say goodbye to primary school, so I want to ensure I make the best effort to thank the awesome people who have helped shape my kids minds the past 9 years.
As a mum and busy family photographer, I know firsthand how important it is to show gratitude to the people who make life a little easier—and teachers are definitely at the top of that list!
After all, they spend their days juggling lesson plans, endless questions, and the occasional glitter explosion (bless them). With the holidays around the corner, it’s the perfect time to say thanks with a thoughtful gift.
But first - gifts to avoid.
In Queensland, teachers need to declare most gifts in a form.
The gifts must be approved by the school and recorded on the public gift register.
Gifts worth more than $150 will also be evaluated for appropriateness but those over $350 are unlikely to be approved - including class-combined gifts.
I once heard of a parent wanting to class-gift a two-thousand-dollar Thermomix before they realised this. True story - they were a thermi-rep.
Alcohol can be a tricky gift, as not everyone drinks, so it's best to steer clear of it.
Chocolates are a popular choice, but let's face it—there’s only so much one person can eat, so maybe give this one a miss.
Homemade treats are thoughtful, but they may not always get eaten, especially if the teacher has food allergies or dietary restrictions.
So with those items off the list - what can we give?
Well lets start with the big one.
The #1 most favourite gift as voted by teachers:
A communal class gift voucher
and a handwritten card from each student.
From pampering experiences to dinner vouchers or a card to buy luxury towels or sheetsets at Myer, the communal gift to remember the Class of 2024 is the best bet.
Tip - you can get around the $150 limit by buying more than one.
But if the communal gift is not an option, I have put together some of my favourite small gifts - and the best part? These budget-friendly ideas under $30 are guaranteed to make your teachers smile without breaking the bank.
You can also combine a lot of these ideas together to make a cute little bundle-gift.
Please Remember
From candles to hand creams, buy quality gifts over Kmart basics. Your teacher deserves the best.
1. Cheese Board
Because nothing screams “treat yourself” quite like cheese. A compact cheese board is not only chic but also practical for their holiday snack-spreading ambitions. Find a nice wooden board and pair it with some crackers and maybe even a mini bottle of fizz, and they’ll feel like they’ve entered a gourmet wonderland. Plus, they can show it off at their next gathering and say, “Oh, this? A lovely gift from one of my students’ parents.” Classy AND tasty.
2. Gift Cards
When you’re unsure what to get, a gift card swoops in like a superhero. Whether it’s for coffee, a bookstore, or a department store, it lets them pick something they really want. Bonus: no awkward exchanges for something that fits their vibe better. Think of it as giving them the gift of choice—and maybe a break from yet another mug (no offence to mugs, of course... see below).
3. Hand Cream
Marking papers, opening juice boxes, and sanitising their hands 50 times a day is rough on the skin. Treat them to a luxurious hand cream that smells divine and works wonders. Every time they lather it on, they’ll be reminded that you appreciate all their hard work. It’s a small touch of pampering that says, “Your hands deserve better!”
4. Coffee Tumbler (with Lid)
Teachers and coffee go together like chalk and a blackboard. A spill-proof tumbler is perfect for those busy mornings when they’re racing between the car and the classroom. Look for one that keeps their drink hot and maybe has a fun message like “Caffeine: Because Adulting is Hard”. Trust me, they’ll be sipping their flat white in style and thinking of you every time they don’t spill it.
5. Small Succulents for the Classroom
These little beauties are a win-win: they brighten up the classroom, require almost no maintenance, and are practically impossible to kill. Teachers already have enough to keep alive (hello, 25 students!), so a cute and resilient plant is just what they need. Bonus points if you choose a fun pot or add a tag that says, “Thanks for helping us grow!”
6. Beach Tote
Help your teacher head into their well-deserved break in style! A beach tote is not only practical but also screams summer holidays but this new style at Kmart is also handy for a day-bag at school next year. Perfect for carrying towels, snacks, sunscreen, and maybe a good book they’ve been waiting all year to read. Every time they hit the beach or pool, they’ll think of your thoughtful gesture—and how they survived the term.
7. Scented Candle
Is there anything more relaxing than lighting a candle, closing your eyes, and pretending the pile of ungraded papers doesn’t exist? A beautifully scented candle with calming notes like lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood is the perfect way to help your teacher unwind. It’s like gifting them a moment of Zen (and maybe a few minutes of pretending they’re at a day spa).
8. Keychain
This isn’t just any keychain—it’s their new favourite accessory. Go for something personalised with their initials or a quirky design that matches their personality. It’s small, practical, and guaranteed to brighten their day every time they grab their keys. Bonus points for choosing one with a little charm or inspiring quote.
9. Car Air Freshener
Let’s face it, after a long day in a noisy classroom, even their car could use a pick-me-up. A fresh-smelling air freshener is a simple yet thoughtful gift that turns their commute into a tiny oasis. Pick a scent like ocean breeze, fresh linen, or citrus zest—something refreshing to clear their head and start the drive home on a good note.
10. Tea/Coffee Set
Sometimes, teachers just need a moment to sit back, sip, and relax. A gift set with a variety of teas or gourmet coffee is like giving them permission to take that well-earned break. Add a cute mug or infuser to make it extra special, and they’ll be all set for slow mornings or cosy afternoons.
11. Slippers
After a long day on their feet, what could be better than sliding into a pair of super-soft slippers? Look for ones that are comfy, cosy, and maybe even a little cheeky with phrases like “Off Duty” or “Do Not Disturb”. It’s the perfect nudge for them to put their feet up and relax—they’ve earned it!
12. Aromatherapy Roller
Stress? Never heard of her (thanks to this roller). A little bottle of essential oil goodness can work wonders during a hectic day. Teachers can keep it in their bag or desk for a quick whiff of calm whenever they need it. Lavender for relaxation, peppermint for focus—it’s like a tiny spa in a rollerball.
13. Sudoku or Wordfind Book
Give the gift of a mental escape! A puzzle book is a great way for teachers to unwind and keep their brain sharp at the same time. Sudoku, word finds, crosswords—whatever their jam, it’s a relaxing way to pass the time, whether they’re on the beach or curled up on the couch.
14. Phone Stand/Charger
Let’s be real—teachers are multitasking pros, and a phone stand or charging dock makes their life just that little bit easier. Whether it’s propped up during a Zoom call, charging while they’re lesson-planning, or just helping them find their phone in the chaos, this gift is practical and clever.
15. Funky Socks
Socks, but make them FUN. Think bright colours, quirky patterns, or designs featuring books, pencils, or even coffee cups. A good pair of funky socks is like a tiny daily dose of joy—and they’ll definitely have the coolest sock game in the staff room.
16. Mini Desk Calendar
Help them stay organised (and count down to the holidays) with a cute and compact desk calendar. Choose one with inspiring quotes, adorable animals, or fun illustrations to make it even better. Every month, they’ll flip to a new page and think of the thoughtful parent who made their year just a little brighter.
17. Local Pamper Service
Everyone loves a little self-care, and what better way to treat a hardworking teacher than with a gift of relaxation? Local pamper services, such as manicures, pedicures, massages, or even a float session, are the perfect way for teachers to unwind after a busy term. Many salons and wellness centres offer gift cards this time of year, making it easy to give the gift of relaxation.
Teachers do so much more than just teach—they inspire, encourage, and handle chaos like absolute champions.
Whether it’s a cute succulent, a cheese board for relaxing evenings, or funky socks to brighten their day, these gifts are small tokens of appreciation that pack a big punch.
As a family photographer in Brisbane, I know how much these everyday heroes mean to our families, and taking the time to say “thank you” is always worth it.
So, go ahead—pick a gift, add a heartfelt note, and make your child’s teacher’s day (or year!).
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER BRISBANE | NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER BRISBANE
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