14 Days ’Til Christmas – Teacher Gift Ideas for Christmas

This post is part of the 100 Days ’til Christmas Challenge — one small step each day to make the holiday season less stressful and a lot more fun.

Most likely your kids have one more week of school before winter break, which means this is the perfect time to grab a little something for their teachers.

Nothing huge. Nothing that requires a craft supply run and an emotional recovery nap afterward. Just a simple, thoughtful “thank you” for the people who’ve spent the last few months teaching, redirecting, encouraging, tying shoes, answering a million questions, and generally helping your kids grow.

Today is all about teacher gift ideas for Christmas that are:

• Easy to order
• Quick to wrap
• Actually useful and appreciated

I pulled together my Top 10 favorite teacher gifts that you can grab this week and feel really good about giving.

Why Simple Teacher Gifts Are More Than Enough

Before we jump into the list, I want to say this clearly:
You do not need to put together elaborate baskets, personalized crafts, and homemade treats for every adult at school to be a “good” parent.

Teachers don’t expect that.

Most of the time, what means the most is:

• A small, thoughtful gift
• A handwritten note from your child
• A simple “thank you for showing up for my kid”

That’s it.

So if your brain is already full from everything else December is throwing at you, let this be easy. Pick one or two things from this list, add a note, and call it done.

My Top 10 Teacher Gift Ideas for Christmas

These are the exact items I’d happily give to my own kids’ teachers (and have, in many cases). You can use this list as-is or swap in similar items if you already have something on hand.

1. Simple Modern Insulated Coffee Tumbler

Simple Modern Insulated Coffee Tumbler

Teachers almost never get to drink their coffee while it’s still hot, so this feels like a tiny everyday upgrade. This tumbler keeps drinks warm, fits in most cupholders, and comes in a ton of fun colors. It’s practical without being boring, and it works for just about any teacher on your list.

2. Touchland Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer Spray

Touchland Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer Spray

Teachers sanitize their hands constantly, so something that actually feels nice to use is a treat. This spray smells good, looks cute, and doesn’t leave that sticky residue. It’s one of those “I wouldn’t splurge on this for myself, but I love getting it as a gift” items.

3. Burt’s Bees Christmas Essentials Set

Burt’s Bees Christmas Essentials Everyday Set

Winter is rough on skin, especially in overheated classrooms. This little set has a bit of everything—hand salve, lotion, foot cream, lip balm, and cleanser—so your teacher can tuck pieces into their desk, bag, or nightstand. It feels cozy and pampering without being over the top.

4. Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens (Assorted Colors)

Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens (Assorted Colors)

Flair pens are basically teacher currency. They’re bright, smooth, and perfect for grading, planning, and color-coding everything. A fresh pack is always a hit, and it’s one of those teacher gift ideas for Christmas that you really can’t mess up.

5. Knock Knock “To Do” Notepad

Knock Knock “To Do” Notepad

Teachers write approximately twelve thousand lists a week. These notepads make those never-ending to-dos feel a little more fun. They’re cute, snarky in the best way, and easy to tuck into any gift bag as a little extra.

6. The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking

The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking

If you want to lean into cozy Christmas vibes, this is the book. Hygge is all about creating warmth and comfort in everyday life—candles, blankets, simple pleasures. It’s a sweet, calming read and pairs perfectly with a coffee shop gift card tucked inside the front cover.

7. Lindt LINDOR Assorted Chocolate Truffle Gift Box

Lindt LINDOR Assorted Chocolate Truffle Gift Box

You can never go wrong with chocolate. Lindt truffles feel a little extra-special and look festive right out of the box. This is a great option if you’re buying for multiple teachers or staff members and want something easy that still feels thoughtful.

8. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

This one is such a beautiful, gentle book. The illustrations are gorgeous, and the words feel like a quiet little pep talk about kindness, courage, and hope. It’s the kind of book teachers can keep on their nightstand, desk, or coffee table and flip through whenever they need a little encouragement.

9. Beaded Retractable Lanyard for ID Badges & Keys

Beaded Retractable Lanyard for ID Badges & Keys

Teachers wear their ID badges all day, every day, so a lanyard that’s both pretty and practical is always a win. This one has that little bit of “jewelry” feel with the beaded design, plus the retractable badge holder makes it easy to use at doors or scanners.

10. Amazon Gift Card (Holiday Mini Envelope)

Amazon Gift Card in Holiday Mini Envelope

If you’re short on time or just not sure what your teacher would love most, an Amazon gift card is the easiest no-stress option. They can use it for classroom supplies, books, or something just for themselves. The little holiday envelope makes it feel festive without you having to do anything extra.

Add a Little Something for the Classroom (Optional, But Fun)

One of my favorite little touches is adding a bonus item that’s just for the classroom. It doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy—just something they can use with their students over the rest of the year.

A few easy ideas:

• A pack of fun stickers
• A bag of small candy or treats for their prize box
• Fresh dry erase markers
• Cute sticky notes
• Mini bookmarks or small prize box toys for elementary

Think of it as a “for you” gift + a “for your classroom” gift. Completely optional, but always appreciated.

Don’t Forget the Everyday Heroes, Too

If you have the capacity this year, you might also want to remember a few other people who help keep school life running smoothly:

• Bus drivers
• Classroom aides
• Office staff
• Custodians
• School nurse
• Crossing guard
• Coaches
• After-school care staff

A small treat and a simple “thank you” can absolutely make their day.

A Simple Wrap-Up (Because You Have 47 Other Things To Do)

You don’t need to overcomplicate teacher gift ideas for Christmas. Truly.

Pick one gift from the list that feels right, add a short note from your child, and let that be enough. Your appreciation doesn’t have to look like a Pinterest board to be meaningful.

If you want extra support staying organized through the rest of the holiday season, you can grab all my Christmas planning printables, trackers, and checklists inside the Holiday Hub so everything is in one easy place.

And now I’m curious:
What are you giving your teachers this year?

Tell me in the comments—I always love borrowing ideas for next year.