The first week of school is exciting for kids, but let’s not forget about the teachers! Between setting up classrooms, learning dozens of new names, organizing supplies, and helping students settle into new routines, teachers have a lot happening during those first few days.
15 Teacher Gift Ideas for the First Week of School They’ll Actually Use
Giving your child’s teacher a little first week of school gift is certainly not necessary, but it can be such a thoughtful way to say, “We’re excited for the year, and we appreciate you!”
And you don’t have to spend a fortune. Some of the best teacher gift ideas for the first week of school are practical items teachers can use in their classroom or small treats they can enjoy after a long day.
If you’re looking for an easy back-to-school teacher gift, here are 15 ideas—including plenty of specific products you can easily find online and affiliate link in your post.
1. Sharpie S-Gel Pens
Teachers can never have too many good pens! Sharpie S-Gel Pens are an easy and affordable teacher gift.
Look for a colorful assortment or package them with a cute note that says, “Here’s to a great school year!”
Sharpie S-Gel Pens assorted colors
2. Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens
Another teacher favorite is Paper Mate Flair Pens. The colorful felt-tip pens are perfect for planners, grading, classroom organization, and writing notes.
A large variety pack also looks adorable tied with a ribbon.
Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens assorted colors
3. Personalized Teacher Notepad
Personalized stationery is always a cute teacher gift. Look on Etsy or Amazon for personalized teacher notepads featuring the teacher’s name.
If you don’t know the teacher’s name ahead of time, choose a simple “Teacher Notes” design instead.
4. Post-it Super Sticky Notes
Here’s a practical gift teachers will definitely use: Post-it Super Sticky Notes.
Grab a colorful multi-pack and pair it with pens, highlighters, or other small school supplies to create an inexpensive teacher gift bundle.
Post-it Super Sticky Notes colorful collection
5. Mr. Sketch Scented Markers
Remember these? Mr. Sketch Scented Markers are still such a fun classroom supply, especially for elementary school teachers.
They’re great for making posters, signs, bulletin boards, and classroom projects.
6. Expo Dry Erase Markers
Practical gifts can sometimes be the best gifts.
A fresh package of Expo Dry Erase Markers is something many teachers will go through throughout the school year. Look for classic colors or one of the colorful assortments.
Expo Low Odor Dry Erase Markers assorted colors
7. Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
If you want to spend a little more, an Owala FreeSip water bottle makes a fantastic teacher gift.
Teachers spend hours talking every day, so having a great water bottle nearby is incredibly useful. Choose a fun color combination or a neutral option if you aren’t sure about the teacher’s preferences.
Owala FreeSip 32 oz water bottle
8. Simple Modern Tumbler
Another great drinkware option is a Simple Modern tumbler. They’re available in lots of colors and sizes and can be used for water, iced coffee, or other drinks throughout the school day.
9. Bentgo Snack Container
A Bentgo snack container is a cute option for teachers who bring snacks or lunch to school.
You could even fill it with individually wrapped chocolates or other treats before gifting it.
10. Teacher Tote Bag
Teachers are constantly carrying books, papers, laptops, planners, and supplies between home and school.
A roomy canvas tote makes a useful first-week gift. Look for one with pockets or a simple teacher-themed design.
Canvas teacher tote bag with pockets
11. Mini Desk Vacuum
This is one of those fun Amazon finds that can actually be incredibly useful in a classroom.
A mini desktop vacuum can quickly pick up pencil shavings, eraser crumbs, paper scraps, and other little messes.
Mini desktop vacuum rechargeable
12. Scotch Thermal Laminator
If you’re creating a larger teacher gift or several families are contributing together, consider a Scotch Thermal Laminator.
Teachers can use it for classroom signs, learning materials, labels, activities, and decorations.
Add a package of laminating pouches to complete the gift.
Scotch Thermal Laminator + thermal laminating pouches
13. Teacher Stamp Set
Elementary school teachers may love a set of cute self-inking teacher stamps with sayings like “Great Job,” “Awesome Work,” or “Please Sign.”
These are easy to find on Amazon and make a fun addition to a teacher’s desk.
14. Amazon Gift Card
When you aren’t sure what a teacher likes, a gift card is hard to beat.
An Amazon gift card lets the teacher choose classroom supplies, books, snacks, coffee, or something completely unrelated to school!
Even $10 or $15 can be a thoughtful gesture.
You could write:
“A little something for your classroom—or just for YOU. Happy first week of school!”
15. Back-to-School Teacher Survival Kit
This might be my favorite idea because you can easily turn it into an affiliate shopping list.
Grab a cute pencil pouch, cosmetic bag, or small storage container and fill it with things a teacher might appreciate during a busy school day.
Try adding:
- Sharpie S-Gel Pens
- Paper Mate Flair Pens
- Post-it Notes
- Sharpie highlighters
- Tide To Go pen
- LINDOR truffles
- KIND bars
- Orbit gum
- ChapStick
- Hand sanitizer
- Hand lotion
- Mints
- Hair ties
- Mini tissues
You can make the entire kit for around $15-$30 depending on what you include.
How Much Should You Spend on a First Week of School Teacher Gift?
You don’t need to spend much at all.
A $5-$15 teacher gift is perfectly appropriate for the beginning of the school year. Even something as simple as a package of nice pens with a handwritten note can be a thoughtful gesture.
Save larger gifts for holidays, Teacher Appreciation Week, or the end of the school year.
And remember, you don’t have to give a gift at all. A kind email or handwritten note telling a teacher you’re looking forward to the year can mean just as much.
Start the School Year With a Little Appreciation
Teachers put so much time and energy into getting their classrooms ready and welcoming students back to school. A small teacher gift for the first week of school is an easy way to show your appreciation and start the year on a positive note.
Whether you choose colorful Flair Pens, an Owala water bottle, classroom supplies, or a simple gift card, it really is the thought that counts.
And if you’re short on time, don’t overthink it. Grab a pack of great pens, add a cute note, and you’re done!
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