Teachers don't expect gifts from their students—really. But many times students and class parents want to give their teacher a small token of appreciation (especially at the end of the school year) and teachers will happily accept. Think small, simple and thoughtful. Based on frequent feedback from teachers, here are the most common dos and don’ts of teacher gifting.

The Don’ts:

• Don’t add to clutter. Depending on how many years your teacher has been educating, she likely has a whole cabinet full of coffee mugs, knick knacks, candles and lotions. The last thing you want to do is add to a warehouse stock of items.
• Don’t ignore allergies. People are very peculiar about their favorite scents and know specifically what will irritate their noses and send them into a sneezing fit, so forgo very fragrant gifts. The same goes for food gifts. If your teacher has a peanut or gluten allergy, your gift could cause a serious health reaction. Check with him first to stay on the safe side.
• Don’t decorate her home. Chances are wall space isn’t readily available in your teacher’s home; if you or your child want to hand-make something, consider an item the teacher can actually use (like decorating a reusable totebag or insulated water bottle).

The Do's:

• Do get a giftcard. Teachers really want them and often use them to purchase things for the classroom. Find out if he drinks coffee and what stores are near his home before you choose an establishment.
• Do give an experience. Dinner out, a free massage or movie passes give teachers something to do with your gift and are easily given via a gift card or certificate. One teacher told us she received a free babysitting pass from a student, which allowed her to go out on a date with her husband. Priceless!
• Do write a card. A thoughtful note from a student letting a teacher know the impact he has made is one of the best presents, according to teachers. It also gives him something to re-read when he's had a hard day or is feeling nostalgic.
• Do get personal. If your teacher has a favorite cause or local nonprofit, consider making a donation in her name. A gift that makes a difference feels great!