Finally Winter is over and Spring has arrived in the Great Plains and with the new season comes all the mini graduations as my child finishes another year of school. And I am reminded when I view all my child’s achievements that I should thank the people who have been so involved with their achievement - their teachers.

My kid’s teachers are a lot like me. They are trying their best to balance the demands of their job with their personal life. If I’m going to show my appreciation for all their labor with my children what would be better than to acknowledge their efforts and labor over this past year with presents?

It seems to me that if I wanted to really show my gratitude I could do something to makes their lives a lot a bit less complicated. The options are go on and on. For example, there is a traditional gift certificate to a restaurant or I could purchase a spring cleaning package from a house cleaning service. Why for the teacher who really adores their car, a full car detail package from one of those fancy car wash places would be a gift that they might not have ever received before but be a big hit.

If a certificate seems might be a bit dull, then bag that idea - literally. Go beyond a briefcase (too stuffy for most teachers) consider personalized spa gifts instead. Tote bags can range from simple to elegant and most have plenty of room to help any teacher get their goods to and from the classroom. And when embroidered with their name or monogram, they also make great travel carry-ons.

If a bag is too big then think small and technical. Perhaps you’d like to consider a gift of electronics or at least some accessory. Cases for their ipod or cell phone can be invaluable. But maybe you don’t know if they carry those things or what type of cell phone they have. Consider some other modestly priced item for the classroom that if a teacher wanted they’d have to pay for themselves because school budgets are really tight these days.

When you are busy balancing your life between both home and a job, stress becomes part of your everyday life. I know I’m always looking for a quiet moment to relax personally. Your child’s teacher is no different. What about personalized tote bags? A massage or makeup make over might be something that really makes them smile (not to mention relax). Of course there are some other options that fit smaller budgets such as home kits that do the same thing. A relaxing mask or soothingly scented bath salts are great ideas.

We owe teachers so much and they ask for so little. The next time you decide to get them a teacher’s gift, show them they are worth so much more than a card or some candy and make their day.