Teachers and coaches don’t require complicated gifts. They just want to be remembered during the holidays and know that they are making a difference in the lives of their students. While it is hard to go wrong when giving a gift to a teacher or coach, there are a few gifts that are best not given.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #1
Fish
In general, on the list of the top worst gifts for teachers and coaches is anything that has to be fed, watered or picked up after. A fish is a especially poor choice. Not only does it have to be fed but the tank has to be cleaned on a regular basis. What puts this item in a category by itself is the allergen factor. Some students are so highly allergic to fish that they cannot be in the same room as a tank. For this reason it is #1 on the list of top worst gift ideas.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #2
Perfume, cologne or aftershave.
Next up on the worst list is perfume, cologne or aftershave. These items are highly individualistic. A scent that is good for one person may make another sneeze, cough or break into a rash. Plus, it may set off a similar reaction among students with reactive airways.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #3
Plants
Not only do plants have to be fed and watered but they can cause allergen problems. That being said, some teachers and coaches may not mind having a plant in the classroom. Unless you know for sure what type of plant to buy it’s best to skip it.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #4
Wine
That fine bottle of wine may be appreciated by many people but may not be appropriate for your child’s teacher.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #5
Fundraising
Skip gifts that come from the classroom or team fundraising brochure. The teacher or coach has the opportunity to purchase the same things from the brochure that you did. Not only might the teacher or coach have purchased the exact item but they might get 20 of the same gift.
Top Worst Gifts for Teachers and Coaches #6
Anything contraindicated by the culture of the teacher.
Be sensitive to culture differences. For example, don’t give a leather billfold to a teacher from India. Similarly, homemade pork sausage shouldn’t be given as a gift to a teacher from Pakistan unless you know that she or he eats pork.
Now for the good news! There are lots of great gift suggestions for teachers and coaches. For ideas, check out the links below.
Budget Christmas Gifts for Teachers and Coaches
