The end of the school year is just around the corner. Teachers deserve special thanks for all of their hard work during the school year. Show your child's teacher your appreciation with a thoughtful gift. Instead of the same old pencil and apple themed knick knacks, why not think out of the box this year. After speaking with the teachers I work with every day, I have a few suggestions inspired by thoughtful gifts that they have received.

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Teachers are real people with lives outside of the classroom. Sometimes parents and kids forget this and shower teachers with school supplies like markers, pencils, and crayons. I'm sure a gift certificate to a nice restaurant, a bookstore, or a favorite department store would be much appreciated.

HOMEMADE GIFTS FROM CHILDREN

Every teacher I've ever talked to appreciates a homemade gift from a child. Do you have an artistic child? A beautifully illustrated card would be a cherished keepsake for years to come. Let your child decorate a beach bag for summer with a painting or stamps. Be sure to have them personalize it with their name and the school year they were in the teacher's class.

GIVE TEACHERS A BREAK

The end of the school year is very stressful for teachers. They have papers to grade, report cards to prepare and other last minute details. Teachers would love a little free time to finish up their school duties. Why not volunteer to take their recess or lunch duty? You could also volunteer to come to their class and read a story after lunch or teach the children an arts and crafts project. Any teacher would be grateful for free time that could be spent getting caught up.

PAMPER YOUR CHILD'S TEACHER

Teachers could use a little pampering at the end of a long, stressful school year. You or your school PTA could welcome the teachers in the morning with a lovely breakfast in the teacher's lounge. Set out hot coffee and bagels with cream cheese. While your child's teacher is enjoying her breakfast, deliver a bouquet of flowers to her classroom. This would certainly get her day off to a good start.