With a pandemic that made remote learning a reality overnight, teachers have had a particularly challenging time. Having to adapt their materials to a virtual format [1], plus nurturing students' emotions [2] from afar, was something of a feat. As a parent or caretaker, you might've had a front-row seat to all of this. So coming off a difficult year, our appreciation for teachers [3] has only grown deeper.
If you want to show your child's teacher [4] how much you appreciate them, send them a little something special. You don't have to break the bank to find something thoughtful, but if you'd like to splurge, that's an option too. Check out these sweet and memorable ideas — from a necessary smart bottle to a pretty assortment of Indian teas.
— Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams
A Pretty Assortment: Vahdam Assorted Tea Gift Set
If you always see them sipping from a cup of tea, get them this stunningly packaged Vahdam Assorted Tea Gift Set [6] ($35, originally $40). It contains six flavors: hibiscus rush, sweet cinnamon, vanilla spice, masala chai, English breakfast, and turmeric spice.
A Coffee-Lover's Essential: Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
This Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 [7] ($100) will keep their drink at their desired temperature for however long they decide to nurse it. It's perfect for those who need a warm cup of coffee or tea to get through the work day. They can customize the settings all in the accompanying app.
Superfoods: Golde Superfood Latte Kit
Put their wellness first with this Green Detox Kit [8] ($77), which contains a skin-boosting blend of original turmeric, a debloating mix of cacao turmeric, and a matcha turmeric pack great at supporting skin health, metabolism, and serene focus.
For the Home Chef: Herb-Infused Avocado Oil Gift Set
Made from ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and rosemary, this Herb-Infused Avocado Oil Gift Set [9] ($24) belongs in their pantry. It'll make for some tasty at-home dinners.
A Special Present: Pierre Thiam Cookbook
This Pierre Thiam Cookbook [10] ($25) makes an excellent gift for adventurous cooks. Since buying it after watching Anthony Bourdain [11]'s episode in Senegal, my husband and I have adopted a few recipes into our repertoire, and they have since become our favorites.
A Wellness Journal: Papier Colorblock Wellness Journal
This dedicated Papier Colorblock Wellness Journal [12] ($33) will help them write down their goals, intentions, and wishes in a clear, concise, visually appealing way. Plus, you can customize it to their name. How much more special can it get?
A Self-Care Gift: Senteurs d'Orient Shinrin-Yoku Gift Box
This Senteurs d'Orient Shinrin-Yoku Gift Box [13] ($48) is designed to instill a sense of calm thanks to its botanical aromas. It includes plant-based soaps and bath salts that draw inspiration from the Japanese concept of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing.
To Set the Mood: Diptyque Scented Candle Set
This Diptyque Scented Candle Set [14] ($155) contains three votives: sapin, biscuit and flocon that evoke comfort and warmth. The hand-blown glass vessels, with their elegant construction and polished look, are just the cherry on top of the cake.
To Liven Up Any Room: Langston Luxury Room Spray
This Langston Luxury Room Spray [15] ($30) will infuse any room with a lively scent of worn leather, aromatic tobacco, vanilla, and sweet amber incense. In short, it will smell lovely.
To Set the Mood: Williams Sonoma Pumpkin Spice Fragrance Diffuser
Inspired by the aroma of pumpkin bread, this Williams Sonoma Pumpkin Spice Fragrance Diffuser [16] ($25) will infuse anyone's space with a delightful essential-oil scent. It's made from a blend of fresh pumpkin, butter, and brown sugar and contains notes of vanilla, toasted pecans, and warm spices.
For the Audiophile: JBL Tune Wireless On-Ear Headphones
If they're always listening to music or a podcast at home or while on the go, these JBL Tune Wireless On-Ear Headphones [17] ($30, originally $50) will make the perfect present. They are easy to use and can provide up to 40 hours of fun.
A Nourishing Body Gift: Herbivore Botanicals Moment to Escape Set
The Herbivore Botanicals Moment to Escape Set [18] ($40) is perfect for a pampering body treatment right at home. The set contains the Coco Rose Body Polish for exfoliation and the nourishing Coco Rose Soft Glow Body Oil. Both products have a wonderful coconut rose scent that's uplifting and relaxing.
A Soothing Ice Roller: The Skinny Confidential Hot Mess Ice Roller
Whether they are prone to facial tension or love a good pamper session, The Skinny Confidential Hot Mess Ice Roller [19] ($69) is a lifesaver. They can keep it in their freezer for a moment of cooling, soothing relief. Plus, it really does de-puff the face.
Fuzzy Slippers: UGG Scuffette II Slippers
Slippers always make great gifts, and these UGG Scuffette II Slippers [20] ($90) will easily become their favorite pair. They're comfortable and cozy, thanks to the fluffy fabric and shearling lining.
A Silky Nighttime Routine: Blissy Dream 4-Piece Mulberry Silk Set
Upgrade their sleep routine with this pamper-worthy Blissy Dream 4-Piece Mulberry Silk Set [21] ($120–$140). The set contains a pillowcase, an eye mask, and two scrunchies. It comes in a variety of prints and colors including tie-dye, silver, white, and pink.
Fresh Flowers: OLIVEE Floral Bouquet
Flowers anyone? Who wouldn't love to receive a OLIVEE Floral Bouquet [22] ($65)? With its soft neutral colors and earthy tones, it will blend anywhere.
For the Perfume Wearer: Sephora Favorites Bestsellers Perfume Sampler Set
The Sephora Favorites Bestsellers Perfume Sampler Set [23] ($68) lets them sample mini sizes of its top 13 bestselling scents, including Burberry Her London Dream Eau de Parfum, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette, Armani Beauty My Way Eau de Parfum, Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum For Her, Marc Jacobs Fragrances Perfect Eau de Parfum, Nest New York Wild Poppy Eau de Parfum, Prada Candy Eau de Parfum, Sol de Janeiro Sol Cheirosa '62 Eau de Parfum, Tocca Florence Eau de Parfum, Valentino Voce Viva Eau de Parfum, Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette, Viktor Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum, and Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum. They also get a Scent Certificate that lets them redeem a full-size version of the perfume they liked from the set at no additional cost. For $68, they get 13 mini sizes of luxurious scents and a choice of their favorite full-size version, which can usually cost more than $100.
Stylish Drinkware: Slow Down Studio Jug Mug
The rustic look and matte-blue finish of this Slow Down Studio Jug Mug [24] ($10) make it a standout gift for the coffee or tea drinkers you know. We're also drawn to the hand-pressed appearance and organic edges.
For Daily Hyration: Monos Kiyo Bottle
With just a swipe of their finger, this smart Monos Kiyo Bottle [25] ($70) has UVC technology, which can purify drinking water. They'll love using it, and it's easy to clean.
The Perfect Everyday Bag: Staud Shoko Tote
Ideal for everyday wear, this two-tone Staud Shoko Tote [26] ($295) is made from smooth leather and supple suede, making it a stylish statement. The rectangular construction makes it perfect to fit in a laptop and other essentials.
For Dessert: The Cake Bake Shop's Pumpkin Bars
This The Cake Bake Shop's Pumpkin Bars [27] ($90) is topped with a layer of sweet-tart sour cream then finished with spiced streusel for subtle crunch. These bars are handmade by cake experts, so you can't go wrong gifting them.
Party Pajamas: Sleeper Blue Party Pajama Set
This Sleeper Blue Party Pajama Set [28] ($224, originally $320) is so festive, they'll wear it for cozy nights in or, if they're bold, date night. It looks luxurious, soft, and comfy.
A Pretty Designer Accessory: Coach Wyn Wallet
We love the elegant simplicty of this Coach Wyn Wallet [29] ($125); the floral print is subtle, yet it gives it an extra charm.
A Diffuser That Doubles as Decor: Vitruvi Essential Oil Diffuser
They can fill their home with the scent of essential oils with this Vitruvi Oil Diffuser [30] ($119). Plus, the stylish design looks good on display.
For a Deep Cleanse: Turmeric Botanical Bar
This Turmeric Botanical Bar [31] ($16) will deeply cleanse and nourish the skin, and it's scented with an essential oil blend of bergamot, geranium, and ginger. It's also fortified with turmeric and rose clay, so what's not to love about it?
For a Return to the Office: Zouxou Trini Loafers
They'll make these Zouxou Trini Loafers [32] ($280) part of their work uniform, because they're so practical and easy to wear. They'll match anything from a jeans and top combo to a maxi and blazer mix.
For Fashion-Lovers: Mishe Bag by Vavvoune
Outside of the classroom, they will wear this Mishe bag by Vavvoune [33] ($495) even for casual errands. It's so chic and glam, plus the lavender color makes it especially elevated.
A Fruit-Forward Wine: McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic 2018 Califonia Zinfandel
This aromatic McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic 2018 Califonia Zinfandel [34] ($25) packs a bold flavor made of fresh plum, cherry and delicate crush black pepper followed by soft oak notes and a hint of spicy vanilla. It's fruit-forward and delicious.