Back to School Teacher Gift Baskets: Thoughtful Ideas for 2025
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Every year, I love kicking off the school season by putting together a thoughtful basket for my kids’ teachers. It’s a simple way to welcome them back and to say thank you for all they do right from the start. Teachers spend so much of their own money, time, and energy preparing their classrooms, so a little basket of useful and fun items always feels like the perfect gesture.
The best part? These baskets don’t need to be expensive. Many of the contents can be found at inexpensive places like Dollar Tree, Target, or Walmart. But I also love adding a few extras from Amazon to make the basket feel polished and extra special. To make it easier, I’ve created a curated Amazon list of teacher gift basket ideas filled with practical, thoughtful picks that I’ve included in my kids’ teachers’ baskets over the years.
Step 1: Choose a Basket or Container
Start with a base that can double as part of the gift. Instead of a paper bag, try:
- A woven basket (I love this one because it takes the guesswork out of find the right sized cellophane bag. It comes ready to go with a ribbon)
- A decorative storage bin
- A cute reusable tote bag
- A plastic bin from Dollar Tree (I have used this one in the past)
Step 2: Practical Teacher Favorites
Every teacher needs a few classroom basics. Consider adding:
- High-quality flair pens and markers (teachers always run out!)
- Sticky notes or notepads for endless reminders and quick notes
- Reusable personalized tumbler or coffee mug for those long mornings (I found the one pictured at Michaels but here is a similar one)
- Hand soap (a small luxury that’s always appreciated)
- Starbucks Coffee drinks
- Gum
- Emergen-C
- Chocolates
Step 3: Add Fun & Seasonal Touches
It’s nice to include a few things that just make them smile! Some ideas from my Amazon list:
- Cute seasonal desk décor (I loved the oversized eraser I found at Michaels)
- Individually wrapped chocolates or trail mix packs
- Brightly colored highlighters or desk organizers (I love this sharp/dull pencil holder)
Unique Add-Ins tO CONSIDER:
Want your basket to stand out? Go beyond the basics:
- Mini desk plant or succulent (real or faux)
- Lip balm for a little self-care
- Portable phone charger or extra cord (so handy!)
- Stain remover pen (because coffee spills happen)
- Chocolate Covered Almonds or Acai Berries
- A gift card for dinner with a printable holder (I used this one and like to print on this cardstock)
Step 5: Wrap It Up
To finish, add shredded paper or tissue in the bottom of the basket, arrange everything neatly, and wrap it with clear cellophane. Tie it with a ribbon or bow in school colors for an extra thoughtful touch.
Back-to-school baskets are one of my favorite traditions as a mom, and they never fail to bring a smile to a teacher’s face. Whether you shop on a budget at Dollar Tree or add some polished extras from Amazon, the thoughtfulness matters most.
👉 Ready to build your own basket? Check out my full list of Amazon Teacher Gift Basket Ideas for inspiration and easy shopping.
Here’s to an amazing school year!
All the best,
