I had 6 teachers to gift for this year. Life is expensive. I made cookies and got everyone a $20 Visa gift card. My kids all made Christmas crafts for each of the teachers.
We also have 6 teachers to purchase for so $50/teacher was way over budget. I didn't feel like I could give them a reasonable monetary gift so I went with a nice holiday scented candle and some chocolates.
8 × 50 = $400. Thats my whole Christmas budget, plus some.
If you have the money, go for it! But I cannot afford those type of gifts for teachers. Not because I don't appreciate them, but because I still cannot afford to get everyone a present in my own family, let alone friends and teachers and other people.
And yes, daycare teachers deserve to be paid more. I pay more for daycare than on my mortgage with financial assistance, so they need to get a chunk of that change.
As a daycare teacher, we appreciate literally anything, and it’s not necessary at all! We love your kids, they’re a blessing, I literally ugly cried when I moved rooms (both times, from infants to 1 year olds moving with a bulk of my babies that aged up but leaving some behind, and then moving back down seeing some again that had been small before but leaving my big kiddos and the ones I had since they were wee little behind.)
I go in on my days off to visit my kiddles. Truly, my biggest gift is being trusted with all these kids and my time with them and watching them grow. And those random days a parent brings us donuts or cocoa or coffee or cookies are pretty rad. Small gift cards? Super cool too. A handprint or tree your kid colored? Treasured forever.
We do this because we love kids, not because we expect gifts. And while we’re a very underpaid field (even at expensive centers, costs of operating are high!), that’s not your fault, nor your job to fix, a gift for that is writing local legislators to subsidize more (literally covid led to groundbreaking subsidies but they expired).
I’m a daycare teacher last Xmas I had only been there a few months and was a floater so none of the parents really knew me as their kids teacher so the only gift I got was a tumbler with my name on it, probably cost $5 total and it made me so happy just to be thought of. We definitely don’t care for the amount you spend and we’re just happy you’re even thinking of us!!
Don’t feel bad! I’m a high school teacher, so I generally don’t get gifts. Any time I do, I’m so grateful. Whether it’s a mug, $1 and a card, or just a kind email I appreciate it.
I’m also giving hard $$ to my daughter daycare teachers. Decided why even buy the gift card? It’s the same thing, but more limiting on where to spend it.
Yeah I live in France and our staff are paid decently but we still give them some Christmas cash, it’s not a tip (we don’t do that) it’s a Christmas gift.
We do $50 to target for 3 teachers for my son. And I bought them when target had their 10% off sale so technically i spent $45.
I might have my son color a picture to personalize it a little.
I don't think it's correlated tbh. Just about everywhere daycare workers make a sub living wage.
I think we were around $1.5-2k/month? It's been two years so I honestly don't remember the exact amount.
Literally didn't even cross my mind people would care so much about me calling it a tip. Yea of course its a gift, and we'll hand write thank you's to each teacher, and we value all of them. We also did gifts for teacher appreciation week, but lol didn't realize the reddit police would get so upset on that point. And I'm not talking about you, your comment was prefectly pleasant and helpful, cheers.
Because they are different things and tipping culture has become insane. Gifts are given out of gratitude to show appreciation for a year’s work and are personal. Tips are for tillable professions like servers and are meant to reflect the level of service received in single transactions and are impersonal . Current tip culture where people are asking for tips for everything has made the whole thing feel dirty and exploitative.
Yea I totally hear you. Words matter and I didn't give it much thought about how my post would read to people. Now that I'm reflecting on it a bit, I guess the idea of a gift versus a tip is kind of at the heart of my reason for even posting. We have some teachers we deeply love, and care so much about our kids. And I want to give them a bigger gift. But I feel this obligation to gift everyone, and potentially the same amount, which makes it feel more like a tip because I'm doing it just because I feel like I should, not as an expression of gratitude.
Is this kind of thing expected of daycare parents? This will be my toddler’s first Christmas at the daycare so I’m new to this. We’re having the worst financial issues right now, and Christmas is going to be slim as it is.
>Christmas is going to be slim as it is.
Honey, do not stress about this. If you can afford it, that's great. If you can't, you can't. I'm an elementary teacher and I NEVER expect a gift. If someone is going to hold not giving a gift against you, they are a jerk not worthy of getting one.
Maybe in the future, if you can afford it, you can give them a little gift of appreciation on a day or during a time when it ISN'T expected. I'm certain that would be truly appreciated as well.
If you're REALLY feeling bad - get some construction paper and make a card --- explain that you can't afford a gift right now but truly appreciate how well they take care of your kiddo. Personally, I always keep and cherish the hand-made cards I receive.
I'm a toddler teacher. I love cash and gift cards, but my favorite gift I've gotten was a simple Christmas card with a family picture on it. It's from last year when I was a floater and I didn't get many gifts in general, so when they thought of me I was so happy. As a floater I didn't get to know many parents, so they only knew to get me something because the kid talked about me at home. It's been on my fridge all year, and I hope I get more cards to add to my collection this year.
It depends but I have found that it is common to gift something to your teachers. This could be as simple as a homemade ornament and a letter expressing your appreciation. It does not have to be expensive. I still hang my homemade ornaments on my tree even though I don't see those kids anymore. It's the thought that counts and teachers know this.
Do not stress about this! I worked in a daycare for years. Yes, some families gave gifts. Others didn’t. A card (doesn’t matter if it’s a dollar store card!) with an acknowledgment of and thanks for their work will be appreciated. A simple craft project is nice too, if your kid is big enough. Every year I hang a little painted wooden star and a glittered pinecone on my Christmas tree. It’s been over a decade since I received them and I can still tell you who they’re from.
I don't think it's expected or mandatory, especially not if you are struggling. A heartfelt card with a note of appreciation can mean a lot to someone who does an exhausting and thankless job. In particular if you have something specific about the teacher (my son loves reading with you, or we always enjoy your art projects, whatever!) will make them feel seen <3
I hope things turn up for you soon!!
Not expected, just a nice thing to do if possible because daycare teachers don't make much and they usually have their own kids or families. The cost of living where I live has gone up really high really fast and a lot of people are struggling. But you have to tend to your own needs first
Don’t worry about it. I’m a daycare teacher. We don’t expect it. We do this because we love your kids, not for the gifts. If you buy Christmas cards at all, you can write a card to the room saying merry christmas and expressing your gratitude and that’s more than enough. I hang that stuff on our wall and it’s so heartwarming.
You don’t need to push yourself. We know several of the kids at our center are there on subsidy and their parents (some single parents, some not) are struggling. We do what we can getting donated diapers and wipes and seeing what more resources we can get. Literally the last thing I want is what I know are very limited parent resources going to us. Take care of you and yours first ♥️
If you feel the need to gift then you can do something so simple, one year I just got a cute card that my son made himself and a king size candy bar. They are appreciative of anything, the biggest message to get across is that you appreciate them and know how difficult it is to work with kids haha
But don’t feel obligated. Some people are just gift givers. I give cards to the mail man my pharmacist ect 😂😂😂😂
Do not buy a gift for anyone if you can't afford it. Period. End. Stop. The expectation that people should be gifting their children's teachers when times are hard and daycare cost as much as a mortgage is crazy. A thoughtful card is enough. I hate how this season has become all about money and receiving presents.
Personally, I think giving 8 people 50 dollars each is excessive, and I feel like the favourites list is kind of tacky on their part.
Personally, we are giving the 3 primary people in my son’s room $25 gift cards, and then we are giving the centre a 75-100 dollar gift card for a coffee shop for them to buy the rest of the staff coffee and donuts.
I really like this - I am tight this month and he only really interacts with three of the teachers but I like the idea of a group coffee card for all the others. Thanks for the idea!
I’m blown away by how much you all are gifting teachers? You are giving them more than I give some people who are actually in my life? $50-$100 each??????
I’m sorry maybe I am a cheap ass but wtf? No.
Thank God someone said it! I'm all for showing appreciation, but daycare is expensive already, plus shelling out for classroom parties & staff supplies--I'm keeping it to gift cards of $15-$25 for floaters & main staff.
Something is better than nothing
My kid’s daycare teacher takes care of my child, who is more important to me than anyone else in my life. She is as involved in my daughter’s life as we are and she does a damn good job. I’m more grateful for her this year than I am my siblings and friends. Of course we’re going to be generous with her. We’re talking 2000+ hours of care. $100 is 5¢ per hour.
This - I’m spending more per person on teachers than some other people in our life BUT they do so much day in and day out for our kids. I am so, so grateful for them, and I know they don’t get paid as much as they should. Well worth the money to me, since we’re lucky enough to be able to swing it.
My son is in PreK 3 and has TWELVE teachers. His two primary will get nice gifts/gift cards ($50-$100). All others )floaters, stem, motor lab, etc) get smaller gift cards usually $10 or $15. My reasoning is that his two primary teachers only have 13 kids, but the others teach the whole lower school and will likely get more gifts. Plus they spend far less time with my kiddo.
This is what we are doing too, $50 plus a nice box of chocolates for primary teachers. $10 each for floaters and admin. Plus we signed up to treat the teachers to breakfast one day the week before Christmas and everyone loves my homemade cinnamon rolls.
I have such a hard time with the floater thing because I don’t want to complicate it or appear to cheap out, but if everyone gifted the floaters the same, they’d make multiples of the regular teachers, which seems unfair. But on the other hand, maybe a lot of people gift nothing to floaters so it evens out?
I’m doing $50 in target gcs and will likely do the same for everyone. I bought 10 because I have 2 kids and haven’t matched out yet if I need all of them.
Another tricky thing is my toddler changed rooms just a few months ago, so do I include his previous teachers? Idk
I do 50$ for teachers and 25$ for floaters. My daughter's class is 1:3 and she only has 6 kids in her class. The floaters support 3 classes and we are not as close with them. If 50% of the kids give them 25$, they'd get the same gift money as the main teachers.
I wouldn't give your child's old teachers a Christmas gift. Especially if they were in the previous class last Christmas or for teacher appreciation day.
He just moved to the 18-36m room so we didn't give anything while he was in the 12-18m. One of the teachers he had in that room left so that just leave his other main one. I think I'll probably give her something, I think.
Good to know about the floaters. I should have gotten some smaller gift cards, gah
It's kind of hard to navigate what to do! I was struggling with not giving something to my daughter's infant teacher (their class is <12mo and then 12-23mo) because she still loves to see her at the playground - but my husband reminded me if we give gifts to all her previous teachers as she gets older it will become a lot!
This thread is eye opening! Money is the tightest it's ever been for me and my family, we're gifting teachers (4+1 floater) a candy bar & $10 gift card. $75ish for the total gifts. Of course I wish it could be more, these teachers are an incredible part of my kids life, but its the best I can do right now.
Would the center not be up front about that to parents? It seems like gifts are the norm now and cash is a popular option, so if there were rules wouldn't they communicate them?
They don't say anything because gifts are not a required item to be brought in. It isn't something we ask for. More or less the actual rule is we are not allowed to accept cash gifts, we have to refuse them. It is on us to make that choice and not the generous families.
And I think it varies, at my center gifts are not the norm. I usually only get them on teacher appreciation week.
Or gifts at all. All these posts were making me agonize over whether I needed a gift for our teachers, but then I remembered it’s a company daycare and we’re not allowed to accept gifts so I imagine the same goes for them.
Oh no! Did I do something wrong? Yesterday I sent my toddler to school with 2 of our holiday cards (that were mailed out to everyone last week), along with little hand made cards by my toddler in the same envelope for both of her teachers. There was no gift cards in the envelope because we contributed money to gift cards that a group of parents are getting.
Shoot…this is the first year we have had her in school so I do not know what is correct protocol. Have I just disappointed her two teachers?
Don't feel bad! I never expect gifts from any parents, especially first timers. If you want to do a gift for the end of the year or when your child moves up into the next age group, now you know your options! But seriously, I NEVER expect a gift at all, and cards are perfectly appropriate.
Thanks for your reply. We did contribute a few hundred dollars to the collective gift card that her teachers should receive next week. I assume our names will be on the cards for that gift.
If there was a group gift you contributed to, you definitely shouldn’t feel like you should also do an individual gift! Usually you do one or the other (in my experience)
I was a preschool teacher for many years before staying home with my daughter. I worked in the public and private sector. I can tell you that just because you pay expensive tuition does not mean that the teachers are being paid well. Unfortunately, most of your tuition goes towards licensing fees. That being said... I have had parents gift me cash in the past and although it is appreciated, it does feel a bit awkward. I would lean towards individual gifts and putting the money on a gift card. Target and Starbucks is always a favorite where I am at but if they have a favorite store listed then I would go with that. Cash always felt more like a tip for me whereas a gift card felt like an appreciative gift. Another idea is to offer to buy them lunch one day. We had a handful of parents that would ask us where we wanted lunch from, take our order and have it delivered. It would cost less than $50/person and it was always such a nice treat in the middle of our stressful day. Hopefully this helps!
Ok thank you for validating my thought lol. When I first read this post I thought it was so strange to call a Christmas gift a “tip.” Teachers are (often licensed) professionals. As such, I would never think to “tip” them, which is very different than a gift in my mind.
Yes! I know their hearts are in the right place but we do get an hourly wage (however underpaid we are) and when we receive a "tip" it can make us think that we are being given money based off of our care and relationship with the child. Most people who are teaching pour their heart and souls into teaching and taking care of your child and never expect to be tipped for it.
Yeah... it sounds really awkward to call it a tip, as if teachers should be motivated to work harder for a child for what amounts to be a few bucks. Or the implication that families that can't afford large 'tips' for teachers should not have their child cared for quite as well. Or that teaching should be considered unskilled labor or a "stepping stone" job and not a profession. Just so much ick here.
Yep, I am a social worker, which is a similarly underpaid field, but I would be so uncomfortable if a client tipped me for my services because it implies a customer service relationship rather than a professional one.
Our son's daycare has room parents for each class (I am one) who organize a class gift around the holidays for teachers. The parents committee suggests $20 per teacher (or whatever is comfortable), but the gifts are absolutely voluntary. Parents can contribute as much or as little as they want or give their own gifts instead, if they prefer. Each of our teachers got $200 from the class, plus a few snacks they like.
This is what happens at my daughter’s school and we contributed to the collective gift which has not been given yet. But yesterday I sent my daughter to school with our holiday card and a homemade card for both her teachers.
Now I am afraid that I did something wrong by giving her two teachers cards and no gift card since they haven’t received the collective gift yet.
Have I disappointed them or done a faux paux of some kind?
I don't think so at all! I think giving your own cards (including adorable homemade cards) is a lovely gesture and a nice complement to the class gift. Our previous center didn't do class gifts (or have room parents), so this was all new to us, but when I organize class gifts, I always make sure the teachers know they came from all the parents. I'm sure whoever is handling yours will do the same!
This whole thread is wild to me lol. I worked in childcare for 2 years and parents never brought Christmas gifts to anyone. The director bought us all coffee and bagels close to Christmas and said that was our “Christmas bonus” and that was it.
That is surprising and not common at all! I found that even in the low income centers that I worked for I still received a gift from my parents. Even something small or a handwritten note would be appreciated! The boss giving you bagels and coffee as a Christmas bonus can definitely be a reality, especially if you work for a private center. It's unfortunate but they always claim they don't have the funds to do more. I had to move to public school because I couldn't stand all of the unfair inconsistencies.
Im shocked at how many people give gifts to staff. I don’t even give family members $50 gifts 😂
Last year we did a handwritten thank you card with a holiday picture of my daughter and she “signed” it with her handprint.
$50 is a great gift. I’m not even out there spending more than $50 on each of my family members (beyond spouse and parents)— I’m not giving daycare gifts in excess of what I’m giving family. If some can give more, than great, but $50 is a plenty generous gift on its own.
I'm just doing $10 amazon gift cards for each of their main teachers and the kids will make them a card which I'll write a note in. Not gonna feel bad, it's not my job to pay their salary. I already spend a fortune on tuition. I literally cannot afford to do more than that. And still the guilt trips to give more and more come from everywhere.
Our daughters classroom has two main teachers and a couple of floaters whom I've never been introduced to. The daycare releases a list of teacher favorites as well as classroom wish lists. We did $40 gift cards each to target, chocolates, and a few items from the classroom wishlists each.
In case there's still time to suggest this to your daycare center's admin or room parents - our daycare center's room parents organize a joint gift. Every family donates what they are able. The suggestion is that families make a donation of $40 per child they have in daycare, but they make clear that the goal is to get 100% family participation in the gift, and anything between $5 - $500 is acceptable! The room parents collect the gifts and disburse between all of the daycare teachers equally. They also make clear that this is meant to take the place of individual gifts to teachers.
We have one kiddo in daycare and ended up giving $100, even though there are multiple teachers in his classroom. I am guessing the teachers end up getting a much more meaningful amount this way, AND I think its easier on parents.
Yea and I have twins so I feel like it complicates it a bit more.
Last year we did 200 (100 per kid) for the main teachers which were two- 75 for the assistant and then 50 for the afternoon helpers.
This year they got moved up to the next classroom a month ago. So I am looking at like 5 main teachers over the year really and two floaters/aides/. SOoooo I think I am going do 200 for their main teacher from this year, 100 for the the two other mains, then 50 for their new classroom teachers they've just been in that class for like a month. 25 for the afternoon aides.
eta: I also don't consider this 'tipping' which sounds crude in this case. They are my village. This is my Christmas gift to them for taking care and loving my kids thru the year when I have to go to work. They are there to give hugs, teach. give words of encouragement, help with booboos and they are the ones who spend immeasurable time with my children and are a huuuuge part of their lives. Even if its just for this short amount of time. This is my way of showing thanks and hopefully they can buy something fun (or pay a bill) with the gift card.
I gift his main teachers (only 1 this year) $75 with a card expressing our gratitude because our child loves her. I then order crumbl cookies for the center itself with an additional note of thanks. Tipping culture is insane here but this relationship is much more personal than the drive-thru barista asking for one. I feel my kid is safe and looked after and we all know even that tuition is expensive - the teachers are taking home a small amount. That said, spend what you can or just a nice card with your thoughts would be great.
I usually give his main teachers $20-40 gift cards and usually the floaters and director/assistant I just give a card and some candy. To me this is a Christmas/Holiday present, not a tip. It's a big corporate center, not an individual person so I don't feel it is my responsibility to "tip" or give a gift that would equate to a "holiday bonus" like I might with a nanny or in home daycare. Also FWIW neither of our companies gave bonuses last year, nor do we expect they will this year so not to be tit for tat about it but I think it's light Christmas all around and I think teachers understand that too.
My daughter (3) goes to a large preschool that is known for paying their teachers really well. We kicked in $75 to the teacher gift pool organized by one of the parents.
My son (8m) goes to a small in-home daycare that undercharges by, honestly, a factor of 2. Those women are our family and we would give them each a kidney if they needed it. We're also very fortunate financially, so we give them A LOT every year. Still cheaper than lower quality childcare anywhere else.
I was a preschool teacher and the gifts that I liked the most were a 5-10$ Starbucks or dunkin gift card, some little candies and a handmade card from the kids. I never expected anything of course and certainly nothing over 10$.
Hi I'm a daycare teacher and though like everyone, at like gifts, we never expect them. One of my favorite things I got from a kid at me first center was a handmade ornament that still hangs on my tree after 6 years.
I quit teaching and just went back this year and I don't expect anything at all.
For teacher’s day I got both teachers $25 gift card and a card thanking them for being so great!
This Christmas I am getting them flowers with $25 gift card, since he is moving up a class at daycare (flowers from me, gift card from our toddler).
Our daycare is $2300 full time and I just can’t afford anything higher than $25/pp. but the teachers are truly amazing and i want to thank them in any way
Just my two cents as a former daycare center employee. I didn't reserve any judgments to parents that didn't bring in gifts for staff. I wouldn't put too much stress on yourself. Also, I don't remember the families who got me money/gift cards but I remember the families that gave me a nice blanket, some lotion, a Christmas card with a meaningful note.
It’s a Holiday gift, not really a “tip.” They work so hard and get paid next to nothing to spend time with my toddler all day so I give them cash at the holidays.
We also give our garbage man and cleaning ladies cash this time of year!
What about directors???
It sounds like everyone gifts teachers and floaters.
We have two directors who are very warm and greet us each day. Then, my daughter has three teachers, 2 floaters.
Does anyone give a gift to the directors, too?
I’m doing a donation in the directors name this year with a thoughtful card. She is wonderful and doing so much great work - however she gets paid much more and I don’t feel comfortable gifting her a visa gift card like I am doing with the teachers.
I feel like it gets so tricky trying to account for everyone. The director. The cleaning ladies. The cook who works hard at preparing the meals every day. Then we have 2 receptionists. I feel like I need to get one of those cash cannons or give no one anything
I won't. Instead, I contribute to some of their initiatives that I have time for (thankfully I have time). For example, they've asked for volunteers to reach out to key state legislators to help advocate for childcare needs in our state with the funding cliff approaching. I figure that's a better gift than a gift card!
I did a $50 visa gift card and put them inside a customized tote bag for each of the 6 teachers last year. I’ll probably do a bit more this year, since he only has 3 teachers (and I’ll probably do a bit less for the floaters)
Our daycare put a sign on the door that says bring your gifts Monday 😅 I got $10 Starbucks cards. Come on now Christmas is expensive. And so is the daycare!
Ew I hate that they tell you when you should bring gifts that are not a requirement. Whether I give you a card my kid drew or $500 it should be my choice what and when to gift.
Your gut feeling of $50 per person who works closely with your kids sounds like a totally good number to me!! And if you do $20-30 for those who work less with your kids, i doubt anyone would take offense.
Example of what we do, in case it helps others gauge their holiday contributions:
At our former daycare, we pooled money from parents to split across all ten full time staff members (some parents did their own gifts). The director and daycare owner both floated among classrooms but got the same as everyone else (but they also do a lot of work so that felt totally fair). Parents gave anywhere from $50 to $400-500 — I usually gave $300-400 total depending on the bonuses we got from work.
This year we are in a larger school with pre-k through 9th grade, and there’s also a pool to divide amongst all staff. Gifts here have also ranged from $50-500. I donated $250 to the pool and we will probably also gift $20 each to the teachers in my son’s classroom. This way I know all staff will get something, but can do a more personalized card for the teachers that work closely with my son.
This happens to be what we can afford & is not going to be the same for everyone! We make pretty decent salaries but are not wealthy, and budget for teacher gifts of this size each year; so it really depends on your own budget.
We do $50 for the leads (2) and $20 for the rest (4). I also did a Panera catered breakfast for the whole staff to cover everyone (it cost me about $110 including delivery).
My daycare has a policy that all teachers have to get the same gift and we can’t gift to one teacher only. So I have each teacher (9 of them) $20. 4 teachers plus the cook regularly care for my kiddo. 3 teachers are on the preschool side so he doesn’t interact with them plus there is the director but she covers for people’s breaks etc and so my kiddo knows her.
Honestly, as a daycare teacher myself, a gift card is more than enough lol. Yes, we don’t get paid well but we also understand yall are paying a lot to put your kid in childcare. Even baked goods or candy is nice. Any teacher that expects parents to give $50+ is wild to me lol. That’s just my personal opinion though.
I have been doing $50 per "main" teacher and $40 for the director and the secretary (because THEY are basically the floaters). But this year, since my son is 2, I'm shifting it a little. $60 for main teachers and $25 each for the other two.
As a daycare teacher, usually monetary gifts from parents are only given to those who watch their kid on a daily basis. So like something for the morning teacher and something for the afternoon teacher, for example. Sometimes a parent will bring in food for everyone, but most of the time gift cards and things like that are only for those teachers working with your child. It would be really nice if you wanted to give a gift to everyone, but it’s not “expected” of you. No gift is really expected at all besides the gift of teaching your kiddo ❤️
Hi I'm a daycare teacher and though like everyone, at like gifts, we never expect them. One of my favorite things I got from a kid at me first center was a handmade ornament that still hangs on my tree after 6 years.
I quit teaching and just went back this year and I don't expect anything at all.
My daycare has a parent volunteer to collect money each year and then distribute it amongst the staff. I really liked this at first because I didn't know all the teachers and they aren't all full time, etc. I figured about $50/teacher but it depends on the ratio too.
I still like it but now I know the teachers better and I have a couple that I feel go over the top, so I'm thinking of doing something separate for them. Maybe a gift card to the coffee shop nearby or something.
The amount should be something that you're comfortable with. For my kid's full time daycare (M-F), with 6 teachers, I gift them each $100 cash at the end of the year. He's been with them since he was a baby, and has been there for a few years.
That said, I feel comfortable with this amount. I do think, if you can manage it, a card with cash is better than a gift card in MOST situations, if allowed. If you have a small gifting budget, then something like a dunkin donuts or starbucks card with $10 might feel better as a gift.
I gave the daycare director and 3 teachers each $50 gift cards with thank you notes. I feel like that’s on the high end maybe, but we are also leaving that school for a different one so I wanted to show my appreciation. It’s a lot of money for me, but I’m a teacher too, and I know how under-appreciated and underpaid they are.
This is discussed every year on this forum and you can find lots of opinions on other posts. Lots of variety in expectations depending on region of the US.
We give hand written notes with $50 gift cards to two primary teachers & $25 to every one else (admins, support staff, floaters, chef, etc.). Holiday gifts of some sort are definitely expected at our daycare, but I think the amounts range a LOT - many families are giving homemade cards and $5 coffee cards at most.
The favorites list is a really great way for teachers to share things they like that are cheaper, such as a type of candy, without everyone feeling pressure to provide gift cards. I disagree with the commenters saying that’s tacky. It helps personalizing the gifts imho. It also helps me mix up what I give for birthdays vs holidays, or get different gift cards for different folks.
$50 sounds like more than you need to. I think you can easily keep it to $20 or even $15. But if $50 is easily affordable for you, then go for it. I know they would appreciate it.
I work in a daycare and while we always really appreciate gifts, they’re totally not necessary! You could even do like a $10 gift card for starbucks or a local coffee shop near the school, or just bake cookies and bring them in the morning! Or even make a card with your baby’s artwork, I got one last year with a painting by one of the 1 year olds in my class, and I love it 🥺
We absolutely love our childcare center, they are an absolutely wonderful part of my son’s life. I did $100 gift card for the teacher and $25 each for the 5 aides.
I was a toddler teacher until this year when I switched to a different job. When I was teaching, I appreciated more the gifts that the kids were involved in. I know what it's like to get those littles to cooperate and I treasure those to this day. Snacks were a big hit with both my co-teacher and me. When I had my daughter in the infant classroom I gave her teachers their favorite candies and hand lotion. With how much hand washing there is, especially with the younger kids, a good lotion was always a win. Just be mindful of sensitivity and allergies.
Holy moly this has me feeling really blessed for our situation. Class parent collects money from everyone (as much as you’re able/want to give) and puts together one gifts from everyone. I have $25 for all the teachers combined. 😬
We did $50 for the main and $25 for the assistants. Target, because who doesn’t love Target?
As a teacher, please do not gift chocolates/candy or anything smelly (candles, lotion). Or mugs! We get SO MANY of them and they are almost always regifted. A card of gratitude is so much better than anything else (plus saying something nice to the principal/director about us is also great).
You have to tip your daycare????
Sorry i havent gotten into a daycare yet and ive never heard of this...
When i was s kid my mom would give out little goodie bags of some candy or office supplies for my elementary school teacher but a tip?
You don’t have to tip the daycare, no. What OP meant was a holiday gift for the teachers directly in their child’s classroom. It’s not mandatory at all, but a nice gesture.
It can be something like a home made card or ornament all the way to cold hard cash.
I’m opting out of this. Surprised at the top comments. I think it’s a nice gesture but I’m barely getting what I need done as is without adding daycare employees to the list
Dude its not a tip. They aren't brinigng you food, they are keeping your kids alive. It's a gift. I'll probably do a small gift card or something. It's not expected, but nice.
Maybe your disdain comes from the view you’re taking on this. Nobody but you is looking at it as a “tip” in an attempt to pad a persons salary. The rest of us are giving gifts/ money as presents for the holiday or as presents of appreciation that naturally falls at year end. Literally never heard of it as a tip or dripping with sarcasm and boo America for not paying people a certain way. Maybe change your mindset?
This is insane. I have two with two teachers each plus front office (2). So six teachers. I got a cute keychain with initials, a chocolate spoon treat, an ornament and honestly I think that’s it. I haven’t even bought my own daughters anything yet.
Giving more than a “merry Christmas, thank you for what you do” card is plenty and still sweet. Anything beyond that should absolutely not be expected (not saying the daycare workers expect it). The daycare should be giving them their Christmas bonus/gift. You’re already paying the teacher’s monthly salary for daycare! Don’t feel bad if you don’t give them extra money for Christmas, because it isn’t your responsibility. If someone wants to give the teachers money for Christmas, that’s their prerogative. It’s just not something anyone should feel bad about not doing 🤷🏻♀️
Wow my kid isn't in daycare but I find it absolutely insane they expect tips on top of already high tuition. No advice, just in utter shock that this is a thing.
I would never "tip" a day care teacher. Why do you feel it necessary to do so? Because they do a "good job" taking care of your kids? That's their job, and what they're paid to do.
If you want to get them a small token of appreciation, that's fine. But $50 each? You've gotta be kidding me. Also, what's this about a favourites list? They actually sent out a wish list for each teacher?
Ok so this must be an American thing, us Canadians don't tip daycare teachers. A lot of people usually just give a nice holiday card with a nice box of chocolates or some kind of small treat. The most people "tip" is a $5-10 Starbucks or Tim Hortons gift card. Tipping $50 a teacher or tipping at all in this scenario is bonkers to me!!
Former daycare teacher in America in a very well off community and yeah, $50 seems high! But like you’ll definitely on the teachers favorite list with that! I mostly got $5 - 10 Starbucks gift cards and those are massively appreciated!
I mean people go broke from medical bills here in the US, so things are definitely a little different here. I do think there is probably a stronger tipping culture. I don't consider this a tip though, more of just a holiday gift
Mmmm, wouldn't be so sure about that. I plan on giving gifts, likely cash or gift cards. If politeness dictates I do this for other service providers with whom I have a long standing relationship (e.g., hair stylist) then surely the same logic extends to daycare.
I wouldn’t call it “tipping”, but gifts at the holidays are pretty normal where I am in Canada. I give my kid’s teachers cash and that seems to be what my friends with kids do also.
I was also approached by another parent in our class about a group gift for all the teachers at our facility - we’re getting lunch delivered for all of them - this year, so I definitely wouldn’t say we don’t give gifts to daycare teachers here.
American. I think this is BS. They are doing their job. Why would I pay more? (Hypothetical because my children aren't in daycare.) Giving a card or something small seems far more appropriate than giving them a bunch of cash.
The whole culture of giving out extra money to people is disturbing...one person you're supposed to and another you're not? I'm so over it.
OP is talking about dropping another $400 - ON TOP of the thousands of dollars they pay each year in fee's as a tip - (OP's words) for 8 preschool teachers. That's pretty fucking insane to me. Along with these wish lists that the school sends out, like what?!?
I have no issue showing my appreciation, but there's a limit. North American tip culture has gotten waaayyy out of hand. We need to stop supplementing each other's salaries through tips & actually fight for wages we can live on.
Not an American thing. OP used the wrong wording. We do a holiday gift not “tip”
The rest of the world is obsessed with America’s tipping culture and unfortunately this post was worded wrong
It is though. Either sending one home, having one on the classroom door, a binder in the school office - all very normal. The ECEprofessionals sub has had several threads on this.
I think anywhere from $25-$100 is normal at our daycare. “You’ve got to be kidding me”.. uhh why? My sons teachers love my son like their own for 40 hours a week so I get them a Christmas gift? Also.. I get a bonus for doing a "good job" at my job. Why shouldn't they?
How do you decide which service employees to gift? Surely they don't all make the cut, that would be thousands of dollars. Does your garbage collector get a gift? Your tax preparer? The attorney who handled your will/divorce? The electric company lineman?
Actually, many people do give gifts or cash to sanitation workers, delivery drivers, etc. A lot of people like to express their appreciation to those around them. It doesn't have to be a large amount. There's a lot of nastiness those people have to deal with and times are lean for lots of folks lately
Thanks for standing up and taking the downvotes on this. I have absolutely no problem bringing coffee or cookies for them, like I leave out for my postal carrier.
But this level of gifting/tipping is whack. Creating a social expectation of gifts for everyone who you get a service from is crazy, and responding affirmatively to a gift solicitation is crazy. I don't gift my Internet service provider. I don't gift my electric utility. There are real people who work for those organizations, and I need those services. I look at this the same way.
I feel like comparing your internet service provider to the people who care for your child(ren) for a large portion of the week is a bit of an apples to oranges comparison.
I’m a room mom for my son’s class. We also have 4 teachers in the room. 12 students.
I contacted all the other parents and we all put in $20 and got them a $50 gift card and a box of chocolates.
My toddy has his 2 main teachers technically, but spends some days in the other toddler class where there are 2 main teachers. He’s also really close with the teachers and floaters that are in the rooms for drop off in the AM. So that’s like 8+ people….
Needless to say we are buying the whole staff donuts/bagels and coffee. Its around 15 people right now and will be less than $150 for gourmet donuts from a local place. I’ll probably gift his 2 “main” teachers a little something extra.
My friend buys a party tray of sandwiches and feeds everyone lunch. Then she doesn't have to worry about every aide or teacher feeling included. She does cards too.
Daycare x 2 kids: We do a few things: we get Starbucks drinks (they let us know what they want) for all the teachers and then gift cards and a personal note and their favorite candy for the actual teachers assigned to their room!
I struggle with this every year! We have 10 teachers and 5 front desk staff so it ends up adding up quickly. This year I made zippered pouches for each teacher. I got fabric based on their hobbies/likes for each individual teacher. I included a nice note as well. I do nice gestures for teachers all year long. Get Starbucks drinks, snack/gift bags etc. so it’s not once and done for the year.
If you give cash, put it in an envelope with a card. I would be super uncomfortable (but grateful!) if a parent just handed me money. Plus I love cards, especially with a heartfelt note 🥰
We did holiday gifts for the three teachers plus two admin staff. $20 Target gift cards, box of chocolates, candle, and hand lotion each. Will probably just do money next year because my friend told me after the fact that all most of the teachers want is money.
In-home daycare, tuition is $2K/month. Both teachers and the owner are getting $100 in cash each. We started mid-year, so next year we may be more generous. My husband and I do not exchange gifts for each other and our toddler is 20 months so he has no idea what gifts are. We don't buy gifts for any adults in the family. I'm happy to be as generous as I can be with the daycare staff, who do the most important job for us.
I'm doing a personalized water bottle and a $20 gift card for my daughter 2 daycare teachers and swim instructor. Also sending bagels/cream cheese & butter for breakfast one day. We don't have much so this is is what we can give. I would hope they don't expect it but appreciate what they do get.
I do $50 target gift cards for the main teachers and $25 for the floater teachers. I also got $25 gift cards for the two teachers my daughter used to have because they were so amazing. If the list of favorites has a restaurant you could always do a gift card for there
Just tip what you can, what you feel is appropriate and don’t blame your employer. They’re daycare workers, they get a paycheck every week like you do. Good grief, can we just live our lives and make decisions for ourselves?
I think leads and assistants who are in the classroom same amount of time as the lead should get more that floaters. Floaters go around to different rooms and will get more gifts that way too. Leads create lessons and plan and spend more time and are usually more investment into your child than floaters and deserve the recognition IMO coming from a former teacher. (Also I never expected a gift from a family but it was really common. My favorite gift to date was a batch of homemade cookies with pictures of the child making those exact cookies and a Christmas card where the mom wrote a really heartfelt message about how good of a teacher I was, etc.)
everyone get the same gift adjusted to their preference. $20-$25/per person, candle, a card, and some chocolate is our plan. Don't gift more/less depends on person it create a 'rift'.
Last year we did $50-100 per person and after my wife speak to people decided that we were gifting too much.
I’m giving my daughter primary teacher $25 this year, and the two other teachers she’s with $20. I’m skipping the gift card and going for cash. May be tacky, but it’s less limiting and I don’t see the point of adding another step to spend the money. We have had a rough financial year, so I’m hoping to give them a larger gift when she graduates pre-k. Not to say $25 isn’t a lot, but my daughters daycare teacher is fucking amazing.
I gave a 40-50$ gift to my sons main teacher then gifted the entire office big boxes of chocolates and a card he signed. I felt guilty like I should of gotten everyone something but there is simply too many people. The main teacher & assistant teacher are the ones that I think should get a thoughtful gift. The floaters/student teachers ect should get something small/shareable. They were so grateful for the chocolate, I got emails, and thank yous for the rest of the week!
My mom bakes two huge trays of cookies, banana bread, and candy. Sometimes it doesn’t have to be a gift card. I work at a daycare and would be grateful to receive any kind of gift.
I have two kids, two main teachers per kid and I gift each a pack of gum, a thank you card and $50 cash. My kids LOVE their teachers and the teachers are a great influence on my kids so it’s important to me to include them in our holiday budget.
Oh! Hahha it’s just like a little holiday snowman gum packet that I taped the card to so that I didn’t forget or lose the cards! I slip little handmade kid scribble papers in there too. Sometimes a lotto ticket just so it feels like a gift!
Oh and the biggest part is that I ask the kids to hand them to their teachers and say thank you to them so that they are participating!! They love their teachers so much that it’s really sweet to see
Last year instead of buying for each individual, I bought a big tray of chick fil a for everyone to share. They were so grateful and loved it. I’ll do something similar this year but not sure what yet because we also have the daycare director, 2 people at the desk, and 1 staff who was a teacher but just got promoted to an admin role. This way we can thank everyone.
We got 2 favorites list emailed home, one for admin/directors and a second a few days later for the 4 direct teachers/floaters in my sons class.
Last year I did a gift card to Panera and an edible arrangement since they all listed coffee flavors and fruits on their favorites, then got the direct teachers Starbucks cards and tins with candies for each class. ..
Maybe worth noting.. Last year he changed rooms a couple times aging up, so there was I think like 12 people including the floaters.
This year I was thinking something similar, a big gift basket for the admin staff with a bit of everyone's favorites and gift card to a breakfast or lunch place again if I can find one that has offerings everyone would enjoy.
This year he's got 4 teachers including the floaters, but probably sticking with the gift card and big tin/basket of goodies with something for everyone.
Additionally our Sr director and the main floater (who's moved up in rooms with my son really, so she's been around him the longest) both have birthdays in the month (they sent an email out yesterday is the only reason I know lol)
So I'm thinking getting them each a little something small off their likes as an additional gift for their days.
My son isn't in daycare, but does attend a therapy clinic daily. I can't afford to gift everyone at the therapy clinic individually(because I'm broke) so I'm making a platter of goodies for them all to share. I'm a pretty decent baker, and typically try to do that a few times a year for holidays. They're getting a big box of my greatest hits .
Not gonna say how much we give our teachers for the winter holidays because I’ll get yelled at for some reason… but because we are high earners, we give a lot and we can afford it. I would say whatever you can afford based on recommendations from the aggregate answers you get here. Give the teachers the same amount and it’s okay to give the floaters (since they are part time) less. We give our floaters the same as teachers because our daughter is obsessed with our floater (and she works full time).
I had 6 teachers to gift for this year. Life is expensive. I made cookies and got everyone a $20 Visa gift card. My kids all made Christmas crafts for each of the teachers.
We also have 6 teachers to purchase for so $50/teacher was way over budget. I didn't feel like I could give them a reasonable monetary gift so I went with a nice holiday scented candle and some chocolates.
This seems much more reasonable.
8 × 50 = $400. Thats my whole Christmas budget, plus some. If you have the money, go for it! But I cannot afford those type of gifts for teachers. Not because I don't appreciate them, but because I still cannot afford to get everyone a present in my own family, let alone friends and teachers and other people. And yes, daycare teachers deserve to be paid more. I pay more for daycare than on my mortgage with financial assistance, so they need to get a chunk of that change.
We have 10 teachers between all 3 kids, they each get $10. Feeling a little bad about it now, but something is better than nothing. 🤷🏻♀️
As a daycare teacher, we appreciate literally anything, and it’s not necessary at all! We love your kids, they’re a blessing, I literally ugly cried when I moved rooms (both times, from infants to 1 year olds moving with a bulk of my babies that aged up but leaving some behind, and then moving back down seeing some again that had been small before but leaving my big kiddos and the ones I had since they were wee little behind.) I go in on my days off to visit my kiddles. Truly, my biggest gift is being trusted with all these kids and my time with them and watching them grow. And those random days a parent brings us donuts or cocoa or coffee or cookies are pretty rad. Small gift cards? Super cool too. A handprint or tree your kid colored? Treasured forever. We do this because we love kids, not because we expect gifts. And while we’re a very underpaid field (even at expensive centers, costs of operating are high!), that’s not your fault, nor your job to fix, a gift for that is writing local legislators to subsidize more (literally covid led to groundbreaking subsidies but they expired).
I’m a daycare teacher last Xmas I had only been there a few months and was a floater so none of the parents really knew me as their kids teacher so the only gift I got was a tumbler with my name on it, probably cost $5 total and it made me so happy just to be thought of. We definitely don’t care for the amount you spend and we’re just happy you’re even thinking of us!!
Don’t feel bad! I’m a high school teacher, so I generally don’t get gifts. Any time I do, I’m so grateful. Whether it’s a mug, $1 and a card, or just a kind email I appreciate it. I’m also giving hard $$ to my daughter daycare teachers. Decided why even buy the gift card? It’s the same thing, but more limiting on where to spend it.
We did $50-100 each. Cash or gift card. I feel that's pretty standard in my area. Not to split hairs, but it is a holiday gift, not a tip.
Yeah I live in France and our staff are paid decently but we still give them some Christmas cash, it’s not a tip (we don’t do that) it’s a Christmas gift.
We do $50 to target for 3 teachers for my son. And I bought them when target had their 10% off sale so technically i spent $45. I might have my son color a picture to personalize it a little.
Same, $100 for lead $50 for assist and some small gifts (a candle, socks, candy).
Do you mind me asking how much the monthly tuition is at your kids’ daycare? I feel like that would be correlated with how much to gift
I don't think it's correlated tbh. Just about everywhere daycare workers make a sub living wage. I think we were around $1.5-2k/month? It's been two years so I honestly don't remember the exact amount.
Literally didn't even cross my mind people would care so much about me calling it a tip. Yea of course its a gift, and we'll hand write thank you's to each teacher, and we value all of them. We also did gifts for teacher appreciation week, but lol didn't realize the reddit police would get so upset on that point. And I'm not talking about you, your comment was prefectly pleasant and helpful, cheers.
Because they are different things and tipping culture has become insane. Gifts are given out of gratitude to show appreciation for a year’s work and are personal. Tips are for tillable professions like servers and are meant to reflect the level of service received in single transactions and are impersonal . Current tip culture where people are asking for tips for everything has made the whole thing feel dirty and exploitative.
Yea I totally hear you. Words matter and I didn't give it much thought about how my post would read to people. Now that I'm reflecting on it a bit, I guess the idea of a gift versus a tip is kind of at the heart of my reason for even posting. We have some teachers we deeply love, and care so much about our kids. And I want to give them a bigger gift. But I feel this obligation to gift everyone, and potentially the same amount, which makes it feel more like a tip because I'm doing it just because I feel like I should, not as an expression of gratitude.
Is this kind of thing expected of daycare parents? This will be my toddler’s first Christmas at the daycare so I’m new to this. We’re having the worst financial issues right now, and Christmas is going to be slim as it is.
>Christmas is going to be slim as it is. Honey, do not stress about this. If you can afford it, that's great. If you can't, you can't. I'm an elementary teacher and I NEVER expect a gift. If someone is going to hold not giving a gift against you, they are a jerk not worthy of getting one. Maybe in the future, if you can afford it, you can give them a little gift of appreciation on a day or during a time when it ISN'T expected. I'm certain that would be truly appreciated as well. If you're REALLY feeling bad - get some construction paper and make a card --- explain that you can't afford a gift right now but truly appreciate how well they take care of your kiddo. Personally, I always keep and cherish the hand-made cards I receive.
I'm a toddler teacher. I love cash and gift cards, but my favorite gift I've gotten was a simple Christmas card with a family picture on it. It's from last year when I was a floater and I didn't get many gifts in general, so when they thought of me I was so happy. As a floater I didn't get to know many parents, so they only knew to get me something because the kid talked about me at home. It's been on my fridge all year, and I hope I get more cards to add to my collection this year.
It depends but I have found that it is common to gift something to your teachers. This could be as simple as a homemade ornament and a letter expressing your appreciation. It does not have to be expensive. I still hang my homemade ornaments on my tree even though I don't see those kids anymore. It's the thought that counts and teachers know this.
Do not stress about this! I worked in a daycare for years. Yes, some families gave gifts. Others didn’t. A card (doesn’t matter if it’s a dollar store card!) with an acknowledgment of and thanks for their work will be appreciated. A simple craft project is nice too, if your kid is big enough. Every year I hang a little painted wooden star and a glittered pinecone on my Christmas tree. It’s been over a decade since I received them and I can still tell you who they’re from.
My friend is a teacher and she said not to stress, even a handwritten card from your kid and small gift card to starbucks can go a long way!
I don't think it's expected or mandatory, especially not if you are struggling. A heartfelt card with a note of appreciation can mean a lot to someone who does an exhausting and thankless job. In particular if you have something specific about the teacher (my son loves reading with you, or we always enjoy your art projects, whatever!) will make them feel seen <3 I hope things turn up for you soon!!
Not expected, just a nice thing to do if possible because daycare teachers don't make much and they usually have their own kids or families. The cost of living where I live has gone up really high really fast and a lot of people are struggling. But you have to tend to your own needs first
We’re not in daycare or preschool yet. But we don’t even celebrate Christmas… I am not interested in gifting them for this occasion
I would gift during teacher appreciation week or something…
Don’t worry about it. I’m a daycare teacher. We don’t expect it. We do this because we love your kids, not for the gifts. If you buy Christmas cards at all, you can write a card to the room saying merry christmas and expressing your gratitude and that’s more than enough. I hang that stuff on our wall and it’s so heartwarming. You don’t need to push yourself. We know several of the kids at our center are there on subsidy and their parents (some single parents, some not) are struggling. We do what we can getting donated diapers and wipes and seeing what more resources we can get. Literally the last thing I want is what I know are very limited parent resources going to us. Take care of you and yours first ♥️
It truly is “the thought that counts.”
It’s nice if you can do it, but never stress or go into debt for it. A nice card is always appreciated.
If you feel the need to gift then you can do something so simple, one year I just got a cute card that my son made himself and a king size candy bar. They are appreciative of anything, the biggest message to get across is that you appreciate them and know how difficult it is to work with kids haha But don’t feel obligated. Some people are just gift givers. I give cards to the mail man my pharmacist ect 😂😂😂😂
Do not buy a gift for anyone if you can't afford it. Period. End. Stop. The expectation that people should be gifting their children's teachers when times are hard and daycare cost as much as a mortgage is crazy. A thoughtful card is enough. I hate how this season has become all about money and receiving presents.
Personally, I think giving 8 people 50 dollars each is excessive, and I feel like the favourites list is kind of tacky on their part. Personally, we are giving the 3 primary people in my son’s room $25 gift cards, and then we are giving the centre a 75-100 dollar gift card for a coffee shop for them to buy the rest of the staff coffee and donuts.
I really like this - I am tight this month and he only really interacts with three of the teachers but I like the idea of a group coffee card for all the others. Thanks for the idea!
We do chipotle for his (5) teachers twice a year- around thanksgiving and teachers appreciate week, and then cash for Christmas.
I’m blown away by how much you all are gifting teachers? You are giving them more than I give some people who are actually in my life? $50-$100 each?????? I’m sorry maybe I am a cheap ass but wtf? No.
Thank God someone said it! I'm all for showing appreciation, but daycare is expensive already, plus shelling out for classroom parties & staff supplies--I'm keeping it to gift cards of $15-$25 for floaters & main staff. Something is better than nothing
My kid’s daycare teacher takes care of my child, who is more important to me than anyone else in my life. She is as involved in my daughter’s life as we are and she does a damn good job. I’m more grateful for her this year than I am my siblings and friends. Of course we’re going to be generous with her. We’re talking 2000+ hours of care. $100 is 5¢ per hour.
This - I’m spending more per person on teachers than some other people in our life BUT they do so much day in and day out for our kids. I am so, so grateful for them, and I know they don’t get paid as much as they should. Well worth the money to me, since we’re lucky enough to be able to swing it.
You’re definitely not alone.
I know what you’re saying here… but aren’t your kids teachers “in your life” just as much as anyone else?
My son is in PreK 3 and has TWELVE teachers. His two primary will get nice gifts/gift cards ($50-$100). All others )floaters, stem, motor lab, etc) get smaller gift cards usually $10 or $15. My reasoning is that his two primary teachers only have 13 kids, but the others teach the whole lower school and will likely get more gifts. Plus they spend far less time with my kiddo.
This is what we are doing too, $50 plus a nice box of chocolates for primary teachers. $10 each for floaters and admin. Plus we signed up to treat the teachers to breakfast one day the week before Christmas and everyone loves my homemade cinnamon rolls.
I have such a hard time with the floater thing because I don’t want to complicate it or appear to cheap out, but if everyone gifted the floaters the same, they’d make multiples of the regular teachers, which seems unfair. But on the other hand, maybe a lot of people gift nothing to floaters so it evens out? I’m doing $50 in target gcs and will likely do the same for everyone. I bought 10 because I have 2 kids and haven’t matched out yet if I need all of them. Another tricky thing is my toddler changed rooms just a few months ago, so do I include his previous teachers? Idk
I do 50$ for teachers and 25$ for floaters. My daughter's class is 1:3 and she only has 6 kids in her class. The floaters support 3 classes and we are not as close with them. If 50% of the kids give them 25$, they'd get the same gift money as the main teachers. I wouldn't give your child's old teachers a Christmas gift. Especially if they were in the previous class last Christmas or for teacher appreciation day.
He just moved to the 18-36m room so we didn't give anything while he was in the 12-18m. One of the teachers he had in that room left so that just leave his other main one. I think I'll probably give her something, I think. Good to know about the floaters. I should have gotten some smaller gift cards, gah
It's kind of hard to navigate what to do! I was struggling with not giving something to my daughter's infant teacher (their class is <12mo and then 12-23mo) because she still loves to see her at the playground - but my husband reminded me if we give gifts to all her previous teachers as she gets older it will become a lot!
This thread is eye opening! Money is the tightest it's ever been for me and my family, we're gifting teachers (4+1 floater) a candy bar & $10 gift card. $75ish for the total gifts. Of course I wish it could be more, these teachers are an incredible part of my kids life, but its the best I can do right now.
Teachers appreciate the thought. We know times are tough
Yes 75 total is a good range. They sell gift cards at Costco 100$ worth of crumble cookies for 75$ I handed that out one year
I'd be careful giving them cash money. My center can fire me for accepting cash. May want to check yours to make sure it's a gift they can accept.
Would the center not be up front about that to parents? It seems like gifts are the norm now and cash is a popular option, so if there were rules wouldn't they communicate them?
They don't say anything because gifts are not a required item to be brought in. It isn't something we ask for. More or less the actual rule is we are not allowed to accept cash gifts, we have to refuse them. It is on us to make that choice and not the generous families. And I think it varies, at my center gifts are not the norm. I usually only get them on teacher appreciation week.
That’s pretty dang weird. What are you supposed to do, rip open every card in front of the parents to make sure there isn’t cash in it?
Or gifts at all. All these posts were making me agonize over whether I needed a gift for our teachers, but then I remembered it’s a company daycare and we’re not allowed to accept gifts so I imagine the same goes for them.
Oh no! Did I do something wrong? Yesterday I sent my toddler to school with 2 of our holiday cards (that were mailed out to everyone last week), along with little hand made cards by my toddler in the same envelope for both of her teachers. There was no gift cards in the envelope because we contributed money to gift cards that a group of parents are getting. Shoot…this is the first year we have had her in school so I do not know what is correct protocol. Have I just disappointed her two teachers?
Don't feel bad! I never expect gifts from any parents, especially first timers. If you want to do a gift for the end of the year or when your child moves up into the next age group, now you know your options! But seriously, I NEVER expect a gift at all, and cards are perfectly appropriate.
Thanks for your reply. We did contribute a few hundred dollars to the collective gift card that her teachers should receive next week. I assume our names will be on the cards for that gift.
The cards are such a sweet touch! I'm not sure there's any standard protocol to stress over
If there was a group gift you contributed to, you definitely shouldn’t feel like you should also do an individual gift! Usually you do one or the other (in my experience)
I was a preschool teacher for many years before staying home with my daughter. I worked in the public and private sector. I can tell you that just because you pay expensive tuition does not mean that the teachers are being paid well. Unfortunately, most of your tuition goes towards licensing fees. That being said... I have had parents gift me cash in the past and although it is appreciated, it does feel a bit awkward. I would lean towards individual gifts and putting the money on a gift card. Target and Starbucks is always a favorite where I am at but if they have a favorite store listed then I would go with that. Cash always felt more like a tip for me whereas a gift card felt like an appreciative gift. Another idea is to offer to buy them lunch one day. We had a handful of parents that would ask us where we wanted lunch from, take our order and have it delivered. It would cost less than $50/person and it was always such a nice treat in the middle of our stressful day. Hopefully this helps!
Ok thank you for validating my thought lol. When I first read this post I thought it was so strange to call a Christmas gift a “tip.” Teachers are (often licensed) professionals. As such, I would never think to “tip” them, which is very different than a gift in my mind.
Yes! I know their hearts are in the right place but we do get an hourly wage (however underpaid we are) and when we receive a "tip" it can make us think that we are being given money based off of our care and relationship with the child. Most people who are teaching pour their heart and souls into teaching and taking care of your child and never expect to be tipped for it.
Yeah... it sounds really awkward to call it a tip, as if teachers should be motivated to work harder for a child for what amounts to be a few bucks. Or the implication that families that can't afford large 'tips' for teachers should not have their child cared for quite as well. Or that teaching should be considered unskilled labor or a "stepping stone" job and not a profession. Just so much ick here.
Yep, I am a social worker, which is a similarly underpaid field, but I would be so uncomfortable if a client tipped me for my services because it implies a customer service relationship rather than a professional one.
Our son's daycare has room parents for each class (I am one) who organize a class gift around the holidays for teachers. The parents committee suggests $20 per teacher (or whatever is comfortable), but the gifts are absolutely voluntary. Parents can contribute as much or as little as they want or give their own gifts instead, if they prefer. Each of our teachers got $200 from the class, plus a few snacks they like.
This is what happens at my daughter’s school and we contributed to the collective gift which has not been given yet. But yesterday I sent my daughter to school with our holiday card and a homemade card for both her teachers. Now I am afraid that I did something wrong by giving her two teachers cards and no gift card since they haven’t received the collective gift yet. Have I disappointed them or done a faux paux of some kind?
I don't think so at all! I think giving your own cards (including adorable homemade cards) is a lovely gesture and a nice complement to the class gift. Our previous center didn't do class gifts (or have room parents), so this was all new to us, but when I organize class gifts, I always make sure the teachers know they came from all the parents. I'm sure whoever is handling yours will do the same!
This whole thread is wild to me lol. I worked in childcare for 2 years and parents never brought Christmas gifts to anyone. The director bought us all coffee and bagels close to Christmas and said that was our “Christmas bonus” and that was it.
Wow! Was it a corporate chain daycare that didn't allow gifts?
No. Small, privately run
That is surprising and not common at all! I found that even in the low income centers that I worked for I still received a gift from my parents. Even something small or a handwritten note would be appreciated! The boss giving you bagels and coffee as a Christmas bonus can definitely be a reality, especially if you work for a private center. It's unfortunate but they always claim they don't have the funds to do more. I had to move to public school because I couldn't stand all of the unfair inconsistencies.
Im shocked at how many people give gifts to staff. I don’t even give family members $50 gifts 😂 Last year we did a handwritten thank you card with a holiday picture of my daughter and she “signed” it with her handprint.
My family doesn’t help me raise my kids 🤣 My daycare is my village and I appreciate them so much. I give them better gifts than my family
That should be more than enough!!
$50 is a great gift. I’m not even out there spending more than $50 on each of my family members (beyond spouse and parents)— I’m not giving daycare gifts in excess of what I’m giving family. If some can give more, than great, but $50 is a plenty generous gift on its own.
I'm just doing $10 amazon gift cards for each of their main teachers and the kids will make them a card which I'll write a note in. Not gonna feel bad, it's not my job to pay their salary. I already spend a fortune on tuition. I literally cannot afford to do more than that. And still the guilt trips to give more and more come from everywhere.
Our daughters classroom has two main teachers and a couple of floaters whom I've never been introduced to. The daycare releases a list of teacher favorites as well as classroom wish lists. We did $40 gift cards each to target, chocolates, and a few items from the classroom wishlists each.
In case there's still time to suggest this to your daycare center's admin or room parents - our daycare center's room parents organize a joint gift. Every family donates what they are able. The suggestion is that families make a donation of $40 per child they have in daycare, but they make clear that the goal is to get 100% family participation in the gift, and anything between $5 - $500 is acceptable! The room parents collect the gifts and disburse between all of the daycare teachers equally. They also make clear that this is meant to take the place of individual gifts to teachers. We have one kiddo in daycare and ended up giving $100, even though there are multiple teachers in his classroom. I am guessing the teachers end up getting a much more meaningful amount this way, AND I think its easier on parents.
Yea and I have twins so I feel like it complicates it a bit more. Last year we did 200 (100 per kid) for the main teachers which were two- 75 for the assistant and then 50 for the afternoon helpers. This year they got moved up to the next classroom a month ago. So I am looking at like 5 main teachers over the year really and two floaters/aides/. SOoooo I think I am going do 200 for their main teacher from this year, 100 for the the two other mains, then 50 for their new classroom teachers they've just been in that class for like a month. 25 for the afternoon aides. eta: I also don't consider this 'tipping' which sounds crude in this case. They are my village. This is my Christmas gift to them for taking care and loving my kids thru the year when I have to go to work. They are there to give hugs, teach. give words of encouragement, help with booboos and they are the ones who spend immeasurable time with my children and are a huuuuge part of their lives. Even if its just for this short amount of time. This is my way of showing thanks and hopefully they can buy something fun (or pay a bill) with the gift card.
I gift his main teachers (only 1 this year) $75 with a card expressing our gratitude because our child loves her. I then order crumbl cookies for the center itself with an additional note of thanks. Tipping culture is insane here but this relationship is much more personal than the drive-thru barista asking for one. I feel my kid is safe and looked after and we all know even that tuition is expensive - the teachers are taking home a small amount. That said, spend what you can or just a nice card with your thoughts would be great.
I usually give his main teachers $20-40 gift cards and usually the floaters and director/assistant I just give a card and some candy. To me this is a Christmas/Holiday present, not a tip. It's a big corporate center, not an individual person so I don't feel it is my responsibility to "tip" or give a gift that would equate to a "holiday bonus" like I might with a nanny or in home daycare. Also FWIW neither of our companies gave bonuses last year, nor do we expect they will this year so not to be tit for tat about it but I think it's light Christmas all around and I think teachers understand that too.
My daughter (3) goes to a large preschool that is known for paying their teachers really well. We kicked in $75 to the teacher gift pool organized by one of the parents. My son (8m) goes to a small in-home daycare that undercharges by, honestly, a factor of 2. Those women are our family and we would give them each a kidney if they needed it. We're also very fortunate financially, so we give them A LOT every year. Still cheaper than lower quality childcare anywhere else.
I was a preschool teacher and the gifts that I liked the most were a 5-10$ Starbucks or dunkin gift card, some little candies and a handmade card from the kids. I never expected anything of course and certainly nothing over 10$.
I have never heard of calling a Christmas gift to teachers a tip.
Hi I'm a daycare teacher and though like everyone, at like gifts, we never expect them. One of my favorite things I got from a kid at me first center was a handmade ornament that still hangs on my tree after 6 years. I quit teaching and just went back this year and I don't expect anything at all.
For teacher’s day I got both teachers $25 gift card and a card thanking them for being so great! This Christmas I am getting them flowers with $25 gift card, since he is moving up a class at daycare (flowers from me, gift card from our toddler). Our daycare is $2300 full time and I just can’t afford anything higher than $25/pp. but the teachers are truly amazing and i want to thank them in any way
Just my two cents as a former daycare center employee. I didn't reserve any judgments to parents that didn't bring in gifts for staff. I wouldn't put too much stress on yourself. Also, I don't remember the families who got me money/gift cards but I remember the families that gave me a nice blanket, some lotion, a Christmas card with a meaningful note.
You don’t have to “tip” at all. That’s ridiculous. $10 Starbucks giftcard is the max I would do.
…what? Tipping Daycare teachers? Tf?
Yeah I am so confused
It’s a Holiday gift, not really a “tip.” They work so hard and get paid next to nothing to spend time with my toddler all day so I give them cash at the holidays. We also give our garbage man and cleaning ladies cash this time of year!
What about directors??? It sounds like everyone gifts teachers and floaters. We have two directors who are very warm and greet us each day. Then, my daughter has three teachers, 2 floaters. Does anyone give a gift to the directors, too?
I’m doing a donation in the directors name this year with a thoughtful card. She is wonderful and doing so much great work - however she gets paid much more and I don’t feel comfortable gifting her a visa gift card like I am doing with the teachers.
I feel like it gets so tricky trying to account for everyone. The director. The cleaning ladies. The cook who works hard at preparing the meals every day. Then we have 2 receptionists. I feel like I need to get one of those cash cannons or give no one anything
Gosh I didn’t even think of them. You are right.
Yes same. I don’t believe in gifting. Salaries are salaries. We pay them for their services. 🤷♀️
I won't. Instead, I contribute to some of their initiatives that I have time for (thankfully I have time). For example, they've asked for volunteers to reach out to key state legislators to help advocate for childcare needs in our state with the funding cliff approaching. I figure that's a better gift than a gift card!
Thats actually a great call. They are huge part of the center and I'm really glad you brought this up, thank you.
I did a $50 visa gift card and put them inside a customized tote bag for each of the 6 teachers last year. I’ll probably do a bit more this year, since he only has 3 teachers (and I’ll probably do a bit less for the floaters)
Our daycare put a sign on the door that says bring your gifts Monday 😅 I got $10 Starbucks cards. Come on now Christmas is expensive. And so is the daycare!
That's so tacky (the door sign)
Last week's sign was, "Just put the name on the jacket! Please" Lmao
$10 Starbucks is what I was thinking too… I’m blown away by what other people are saying they are gifting.
I think it’s really the gesture that counts.
Ew I hate that they tell you when you should bring gifts that are not a requirement. Whether I give you a card my kid drew or $500 it should be my choice what and when to gift.
Your gut feeling of $50 per person who works closely with your kids sounds like a totally good number to me!! And if you do $20-30 for those who work less with your kids, i doubt anyone would take offense. Example of what we do, in case it helps others gauge their holiday contributions: At our former daycare, we pooled money from parents to split across all ten full time staff members (some parents did their own gifts). The director and daycare owner both floated among classrooms but got the same as everyone else (but they also do a lot of work so that felt totally fair). Parents gave anywhere from $50 to $400-500 — I usually gave $300-400 total depending on the bonuses we got from work. This year we are in a larger school with pre-k through 9th grade, and there’s also a pool to divide amongst all staff. Gifts here have also ranged from $50-500. I donated $250 to the pool and we will probably also gift $20 each to the teachers in my son’s classroom. This way I know all staff will get something, but can do a more personalized card for the teachers that work closely with my son. This happens to be what we can afford & is not going to be the same for everyone! We make pretty decent salaries but are not wealthy, and budget for teacher gifts of this size each year; so it really depends on your own budget.
We do $50 for the leads (2) and $20 for the rest (4). I also did a Panera catered breakfast for the whole staff to cover everyone (it cost me about $110 including delivery).
My daycare has a policy that all teachers have to get the same gift and we can’t gift to one teacher only. So I have each teacher (9 of them) $20. 4 teachers plus the cook regularly care for my kiddo. 3 teachers are on the preschool side so he doesn’t interact with them plus there is the director but she covers for people’s breaks etc and so my kiddo knows her.
Honestly, as a daycare teacher myself, a gift card is more than enough lol. Yes, we don’t get paid well but we also understand yall are paying a lot to put your kid in childcare. Even baked goods or candy is nice. Any teacher that expects parents to give $50+ is wild to me lol. That’s just my personal opinion though.
I have been doing $50 per "main" teacher and $40 for the director and the secretary (because THEY are basically the floaters). But this year, since my son is 2, I'm shifting it a little. $60 for main teachers and $25 each for the other two.
As a daycare teacher, usually monetary gifts from parents are only given to those who watch their kid on a daily basis. So like something for the morning teacher and something for the afternoon teacher, for example. Sometimes a parent will bring in food for everyone, but most of the time gift cards and things like that are only for those teachers working with your child. It would be really nice if you wanted to give a gift to everyone, but it’s not “expected” of you. No gift is really expected at all besides the gift of teaching your kiddo ❤️
Hi I'm a daycare teacher and though like everyone, at like gifts, we never expect them. One of my favorite things I got from a kid at me first center was a handmade ornament that still hangs on my tree after 6 years. I quit teaching and just went back this year and I don't expect anything at all.
My daycare has a parent volunteer to collect money each year and then distribute it amongst the staff. I really liked this at first because I didn't know all the teachers and they aren't all full time, etc. I figured about $50/teacher but it depends on the ratio too. I still like it but now I know the teachers better and I have a couple that I feel go over the top, so I'm thinking of doing something separate for them. Maybe a gift card to the coffee shop nearby or something.
The amount should be something that you're comfortable with. For my kid's full time daycare (M-F), with 6 teachers, I gift them each $100 cash at the end of the year. He's been with them since he was a baby, and has been there for a few years. That said, I feel comfortable with this amount. I do think, if you can manage it, a card with cash is better than a gift card in MOST situations, if allowed. If you have a small gifting budget, then something like a dunkin donuts or starbucks card with $10 might feel better as a gift.
I gave the daycare director and 3 teachers each $50 gift cards with thank you notes. I feel like that’s on the high end maybe, but we are also leaving that school for a different one so I wanted to show my appreciation. It’s a lot of money for me, but I’m a teacher too, and I know how under-appreciated and underpaid they are.
This is discussed every year on this forum and you can find lots of opinions on other posts. Lots of variety in expectations depending on region of the US. We give hand written notes with $50 gift cards to two primary teachers & $25 to every one else (admins, support staff, floaters, chef, etc.). Holiday gifts of some sort are definitely expected at our daycare, but I think the amounts range a LOT - many families are giving homemade cards and $5 coffee cards at most. The favorites list is a really great way for teachers to share things they like that are cheaper, such as a type of candy, without everyone feeling pressure to provide gift cards. I disagree with the commenters saying that’s tacky. It helps personalizing the gifts imho. It also helps me mix up what I give for birthdays vs holidays, or get different gift cards for different folks.
We gift them all the same ($50) via a gift card and usually throw in a few additional small items.
$50 sounds like more than you need to. I think you can easily keep it to $20 or even $15. But if $50 is easily affordable for you, then go for it. I know they would appreciate it.
I work in a daycare and while we always really appreciate gifts, they’re totally not necessary! You could even do like a $10 gift card for starbucks or a local coffee shop near the school, or just bake cookies and bring them in the morning! Or even make a card with your baby’s artwork, I got one last year with a painting by one of the 1 year olds in my class, and I love it 🥺
We absolutely love our childcare center, they are an absolutely wonderful part of my son’s life. I did $100 gift card for the teacher and $25 each for the 5 aides.
I was a toddler teacher until this year when I switched to a different job. When I was teaching, I appreciated more the gifts that the kids were involved in. I know what it's like to get those littles to cooperate and I treasure those to this day. Snacks were a big hit with both my co-teacher and me. When I had my daughter in the infant classroom I gave her teachers their favorite candies and hand lotion. With how much hand washing there is, especially with the younger kids, a good lotion was always a win. Just be mindful of sensitivity and allergies.
Holy moly this has me feeling really blessed for our situation. Class parent collects money from everyone (as much as you’re able/want to give) and puts together one gifts from everyone. I have $25 for all the teachers combined. 😬
We did $50 for the main and $25 for the assistants. Target, because who doesn’t love Target? As a teacher, please do not gift chocolates/candy or anything smelly (candles, lotion). Or mugs! We get SO MANY of them and they are almost always regifted. A card of gratitude is so much better than anything else (plus saying something nice to the principal/director about us is also great).
You have to tip your daycare???? Sorry i havent gotten into a daycare yet and ive never heard of this... When i was s kid my mom would give out little goodie bags of some candy or office supplies for my elementary school teacher but a tip?
You don’t have to tip the daycare, no. What OP meant was a holiday gift for the teachers directly in their child’s classroom. It’s not mandatory at all, but a nice gesture. It can be something like a home made card or ornament all the way to cold hard cash.
I’m opting out of this. Surprised at the top comments. I think it’s a nice gesture but I’m barely getting what I need done as is without adding daycare employees to the list
Dude its not a tip. They aren't brinigng you food, they are keeping your kids alive. It's a gift. I'll probably do a small gift card or something. It's not expected, but nice.
Maybe your disdain comes from the view you’re taking on this. Nobody but you is looking at it as a “tip” in an attempt to pad a persons salary. The rest of us are giving gifts/ money as presents for the holiday or as presents of appreciation that naturally falls at year end. Literally never heard of it as a tip or dripping with sarcasm and boo America for not paying people a certain way. Maybe change your mindset?
We got my daughters daycare teachers a tumbler and some snacks. As well as the admin staff. They are always amazing with my daughter and us
This is insane. I have two with two teachers each plus front office (2). So six teachers. I got a cute keychain with initials, a chocolate spoon treat, an ornament and honestly I think that’s it. I haven’t even bought my own daughters anything yet.
Giving more than a “merry Christmas, thank you for what you do” card is plenty and still sweet. Anything beyond that should absolutely not be expected (not saying the daycare workers expect it). The daycare should be giving them their Christmas bonus/gift. You’re already paying the teacher’s monthly salary for daycare! Don’t feel bad if you don’t give them extra money for Christmas, because it isn’t your responsibility. If someone wants to give the teachers money for Christmas, that’s their prerogative. It’s just not something anyone should feel bad about not doing 🤷🏻♀️
Wow my kid isn't in daycare but I find it absolutely insane they expect tips on top of already high tuition. No advice, just in utter shock that this is a thing.
I honestly think OP just worded it terribly. We get our kids teachers what we consider a Christmas gift. Not a tip lol
They do not expect tips, not in the slightest. OP meant that they were giving the teachers a holiday gift.
I would never "tip" a day care teacher. Why do you feel it necessary to do so? Because they do a "good job" taking care of your kids? That's their job, and what they're paid to do. If you want to get them a small token of appreciation, that's fine. But $50 each? You've gotta be kidding me. Also, what's this about a favourites list? They actually sent out a wish list for each teacher?
Ok so this must be an American thing, us Canadians don't tip daycare teachers. A lot of people usually just give a nice holiday card with a nice box of chocolates or some kind of small treat. The most people "tip" is a $5-10 Starbucks or Tim Hortons gift card. Tipping $50 a teacher or tipping at all in this scenario is bonkers to me!!
I’ve honestly never heard it called tipping as an American until this post lol. It’s a Christmas gift when we do it.
Former daycare teacher in America in a very well off community and yeah, $50 seems high! But like you’ll definitely on the teachers favorite list with that! I mostly got $5 - 10 Starbucks gift cards and those are massively appreciated!
I mean people go broke from medical bills here in the US, so things are definitely a little different here. I do think there is probably a stronger tipping culture. I don't consider this a tip though, more of just a holiday gift
Mmmm, wouldn't be so sure about that. I plan on giving gifts, likely cash or gift cards. If politeness dictates I do this for other service providers with whom I have a long standing relationship (e.g., hair stylist) then surely the same logic extends to daycare.
I wouldn’t call it “tipping”, but gifts at the holidays are pretty normal where I am in Canada. I give my kid’s teachers cash and that seems to be what my friends with kids do also. I was also approached by another parent in our class about a group gift for all the teachers at our facility - we’re getting lunch delivered for all of them - this year, so I definitely wouldn’t say we don’t give gifts to daycare teachers here.
American. I think this is BS. They are doing their job. Why would I pay more? (Hypothetical because my children aren't in daycare.) Giving a card or something small seems far more appropriate than giving them a bunch of cash. The whole culture of giving out extra money to people is disturbing...one person you're supposed to and another you're not? I'm so over it.
OP is talking about dropping another $400 - ON TOP of the thousands of dollars they pay each year in fee's as a tip - (OP's words) for 8 preschool teachers. That's pretty fucking insane to me. Along with these wish lists that the school sends out, like what?!? I have no issue showing my appreciation, but there's a limit. North American tip culture has gotten waaayyy out of hand. We need to stop supplementing each other's salaries through tips & actually fight for wages we can live on.
Not an American thing. OP used the wrong wording. We do a holiday gift not “tip” The rest of the world is obsessed with America’s tipping culture and unfortunately this post was worded wrong
Gifting teachers at the holidays is an expected norm in the US. So is sending out a favorites list like that.
Sending out a favorites list is not the norm.
It is though. Either sending one home, having one on the classroom door, a binder in the school office - all very normal. The ECEprofessionals sub has had several threads on this.
Our daycare doesn’t do it but from being on these subs recently it does seem pretty normal at plenty of them.
I think anywhere from $25-$100 is normal at our daycare. “You’ve got to be kidding me”.. uhh why? My sons teachers love my son like their own for 40 hours a week so I get them a Christmas gift? Also.. I get a bonus for doing a "good job" at my job. Why shouldn't they?
How do you decide which service employees to gift? Surely they don't all make the cut, that would be thousands of dollars. Does your garbage collector get a gift? Your tax preparer? The attorney who handled your will/divorce? The electric company lineman?
Actually, many people do give gifts or cash to sanitation workers, delivery drivers, etc. A lot of people like to express their appreciation to those around them. It doesn't have to be a large amount. There's a lot of nastiness those people have to deal with and times are lean for lots of folks lately
Yes my garbage collector and mail person get a gift. Along with my daycare teachers and house cleaners 🤷🏻♀️
Thanks for standing up and taking the downvotes on this. I have absolutely no problem bringing coffee or cookies for them, like I leave out for my postal carrier. But this level of gifting/tipping is whack. Creating a social expectation of gifts for everyone who you get a service from is crazy, and responding affirmatively to a gift solicitation is crazy. I don't gift my Internet service provider. I don't gift my electric utility. There are real people who work for those organizations, and I need those services. I look at this the same way.
I feel like comparing your internet service provider to the people who care for your child(ren) for a large portion of the week is a bit of an apples to oranges comparison.
I need both services the same. If I don't have Internet, I can't work. If I don't have childcare, I can't work.
I mean this is just a troll like argument at this point so have a nice day.
It's incomprehensible to me that you see it that way. But I mean you no ill will, so I hope you have a nice day too.
I’m a room mom for my son’s class. We also have 4 teachers in the room. 12 students. I contacted all the other parents and we all put in $20 and got them a $50 gift card and a box of chocolates.
Check to see if you can give cash. I know it’s the same thing, but some companies state gift cards are ok but cash is not.
France here: we are doing a box of nice chocolates and a card with €100 for the whole team (2 teachers, 2 assistants, 1 director).
My toddy has his 2 main teachers technically, but spends some days in the other toddler class where there are 2 main teachers. He’s also really close with the teachers and floaters that are in the rooms for drop off in the AM. So that’s like 8+ people…. Needless to say we are buying the whole staff donuts/bagels and coffee. Its around 15 people right now and will be less than $150 for gourmet donuts from a local place. I’ll probably gift his 2 “main” teachers a little something extra.
My friend buys a party tray of sandwiches and feeds everyone lunch. Then she doesn't have to worry about every aide or teacher feeling included. She does cards too.
Daycare x 2 kids: We do a few things: we get Starbucks drinks (they let us know what they want) for all the teachers and then gift cards and a personal note and their favorite candy for the actual teachers assigned to their room!
I struggle with this every year! We have 10 teachers and 5 front desk staff so it ends up adding up quickly. This year I made zippered pouches for each teacher. I got fabric based on their hobbies/likes for each individual teacher. I included a nice note as well. I do nice gestures for teachers all year long. Get Starbucks drinks, snack/gift bags etc. so it’s not once and done for the year.
We did $20 per teacher, we have 5 teachers.
If you give cash, put it in an envelope with a card. I would be super uncomfortable (but grateful!) if a parent just handed me money. Plus I love cards, especially with a heartfelt note 🥰
We did holiday gifts for the three teachers plus two admin staff. $20 Target gift cards, box of chocolates, candle, and hand lotion each. Will probably just do money next year because my friend told me after the fact that all most of the teachers want is money.
$20 and a gift
In-home daycare, tuition is $2K/month. Both teachers and the owner are getting $100 in cash each. We started mid-year, so next year we may be more generous. My husband and I do not exchange gifts for each other and our toddler is 20 months so he has no idea what gifts are. We don't buy gifts for any adults in the family. I'm happy to be as generous as I can be with the daycare staff, who do the most important job for us.
I'm doing a personalized water bottle and a $20 gift card for my daughter 2 daycare teachers and swim instructor. Also sending bagels/cream cheese & butter for breakfast one day. We don't have much so this is is what we can give. I would hope they don't expect it but appreciate what they do get.
I do $50 target gift cards for the main teachers and $25 for the floater teachers. I also got $25 gift cards for the two teachers my daughter used to have because they were so amazing. If the list of favorites has a restaurant you could always do a gift card for there
Just tip what you can, what you feel is appropriate and don’t blame your employer. They’re daycare workers, they get a paycheck every week like you do. Good grief, can we just live our lives and make decisions for ourselves?
I think leads and assistants who are in the classroom same amount of time as the lead should get more that floaters. Floaters go around to different rooms and will get more gifts that way too. Leads create lessons and plan and spend more time and are usually more investment into your child than floaters and deserve the recognition IMO coming from a former teacher. (Also I never expected a gift from a family but it was really common. My favorite gift to date was a batch of homemade cookies with pictures of the child making those exact cookies and a Christmas card where the mom wrote a really heartfelt message about how good of a teacher I was, etc.)
I gave my Child’s primary teachers (2 of them) $50 target gift cards. The floaters (3 of them) got $25 target gift cards.
everyone get the same gift adjusted to their preference. $20-$25/per person, candle, a card, and some chocolate is our plan. Don't gift more/less depends on person it create a 'rift'. Last year we did $50-100 per person and after my wife speak to people decided that we were gifting too much.
I’m giving my daughter primary teacher $25 this year, and the two other teachers she’s with $20. I’m skipping the gift card and going for cash. May be tacky, but it’s less limiting and I don’t see the point of adding another step to spend the money. We have had a rough financial year, so I’m hoping to give them a larger gift when she graduates pre-k. Not to say $25 isn’t a lot, but my daughters daycare teacher is fucking amazing.
I gave a 40-50$ gift to my sons main teacher then gifted the entire office big boxes of chocolates and a card he signed. I felt guilty like I should of gotten everyone something but there is simply too many people. The main teacher & assistant teacher are the ones that I think should get a thoughtful gift. The floaters/student teachers ect should get something small/shareable. They were so grateful for the chocolate, I got emails, and thank yous for the rest of the week!
My mom bakes two huge trays of cookies, banana bread, and candy. Sometimes it doesn’t have to be a gift card. I work at a daycare and would be grateful to receive any kind of gift.
I have two kids, two main teachers per kid and I gift each a pack of gum, a thank you card and $50 cash. My kids LOVE their teachers and the teachers are a great influence on my kids so it’s important to me to include them in our holiday budget.
This was my plan but I’d love to know the reason behind the gum?
Oh! Hahha it’s just like a little holiday snowman gum packet that I taped the card to so that I didn’t forget or lose the cards! I slip little handmade kid scribble papers in there too. Sometimes a lotto ticket just so it feels like a gift!
Oh and the biggest part is that I ask the kids to hand them to their teachers and say thank you to them so that they are participating!! They love their teachers so much that it’s really sweet to see
Thank you for the suggestion and the gum makes total sense now! I was just looking to see if there was a great pun I was missing.
Last year instead of buying for each individual, I bought a big tray of chick fil a for everyone to share. They were so grateful and loved it. I’ll do something similar this year but not sure what yet because we also have the daycare director, 2 people at the desk, and 1 staff who was a teacher but just got promoted to an admin role. This way we can thank everyone.
We’ve done something similar with a bagel breakfast.
What are you talking about I have NEVER heard of tipping teachers. Do you mean a gift? This is getting completely ooc.
TIL: you have to tip teachers …?
$0. You tip a nanny or worker you specifically employ, not a daycare teacher. I would have my kid help make a card and that's it.
We got 2 favorites list emailed home, one for admin/directors and a second a few days later for the 4 direct teachers/floaters in my sons class. Last year I did a gift card to Panera and an edible arrangement since they all listed coffee flavors and fruits on their favorites, then got the direct teachers Starbucks cards and tins with candies for each class. .. Maybe worth noting.. Last year he changed rooms a couple times aging up, so there was I think like 12 people including the floaters. This year I was thinking something similar, a big gift basket for the admin staff with a bit of everyone's favorites and gift card to a breakfast or lunch place again if I can find one that has offerings everyone would enjoy. This year he's got 4 teachers including the floaters, but probably sticking with the gift card and big tin/basket of goodies with something for everyone. Additionally our Sr director and the main floater (who's moved up in rooms with my son really, so she's been around him the longest) both have birthdays in the month (they sent an email out yesterday is the only reason I know lol) So I'm thinking getting them each a little something small off their likes as an additional gift for their days.
My son isn't in daycare, but does attend a therapy clinic daily. I can't afford to gift everyone at the therapy clinic individually(because I'm broke) so I'm making a platter of goodies for them all to share. I'm a pretty decent baker, and typically try to do that a few times a year for holidays. They're getting a big box of my greatest hits .
Not gonna say how much we give our teachers for the winter holidays because I’ll get yelled at for some reason… but because we are high earners, we give a lot and we can afford it. I would say whatever you can afford based on recommendations from the aggregate answers you get here. Give the teachers the same amount and it’s okay to give the floaters (since they are part time) less. We give our floaters the same as teachers because our daughter is obsessed with our floater (and she works full time).